MotoGP set to introduce minimum rider salary
A €500,000 minimum salary for all MotoGP riders from 2027 is reportedly close to approval.
MotoGP is poised to introduce a minimum rider salary of €500,000 from 2027, according to Motorsport.com.
If confirmed, the regulation would apply to all full-time riders, including rookies entering the premier class.
The purpose of the move is to reduce the vast difference between the best and worst paid riders on the grid, all of whom take the same risks when on track.
Marc Marquez and Fabio Quartararo are thought to have been MotoGP’s highest earners in recent years, topping €10 million per season.
At the other extreme, some satellite riders are believed to be on annual contracts of around €100,000.
The proposed €500,000 minimum would not include performance-related bonuses.
Motorsport.com reports that the clause has already been included in the draft 2027-2031 commercial agreement currently under discussion between MotoGP SEG (previously known as Dorna) and the teams.
Calls for a minimum wage in MotoGP are nothing new.
The issue was previously linked to the formation of a riders’ association, which failed to materialise.
Talks on the 2027-2031 commercial contract are due to continue between MotoGP SEG and the MSMA at this weekend's Thai season opener, amid rumours that the manufacturers have been seeking an F1-style Concorde agreement for the new Liberty era.
