The MotoGP paddock is rolling out changes reminiscent of Formula 1, with teams now allocated a third garage exclusively for VIP guests. The move, which has drawn some criticism, aims to enhance the race-day experience for corporate partners and high-profile invitees.
This weekend’s fifth round of the 2026 MotoGP season at the French Grand Prix brought not only on-track drama—such as Marc Márquez having to go through Q1 and Johann Zarco setting a new lap record (01:29.907)—but also significant off-track adjustments. Among them, a new pit-lane entry rule was enforced to close a regulatory loophole exposed during the Sprint race at the Spanish GP, when Márquez’s move raised safety concerns.
The updated rule states: “Pit-lane entry must be respected. To avoid cutting corners and dangerous riding, riders cannot ride outside the painted area of the kerb at the pit entry. They must stay inside the white line on the right side until they pass the 60 km/h speed limit sign. During races, such as flag-to-flag bike changes, any infringement will result in an immediate penalty, not counted as track limits or a shortcut.”
However, the most notable change came from Liberty Media’s influence. Following the F1 model, MotoGP now permits each premier-class team to have three garages: one for each rider and a third tailored for VIP guests. This dedicated space allows sponsors and guests to relax while watching bikes enter and exit pit lane.
“The idea is for VIPs to enjoy a close-up, more relaxed atmosphere of the action,” a source explained.
On the flip side, Moto3 and Moto2 teams have lost their garage privileges. They will now work from permanent carps—a practice that had been adopted only occasionally at smaller circuits but has now become standard across all venues.
This season has seen other regulatory tweaks, including a change to how pit-lane entry is policed, all part of a broader push by Liberty Media to modernize the championship and grow its commercial appeal, much like it did with F1.
