CFMoto makes MotoGP plans official with a new racing centre in Italy

CFMoto has confirmed plans to enter MotoGP. Until now it was technically just rumour. The brand is also setting up a racing technology centre in Rimini, a short drive from Bologna, Ducati's home turf.

CFMoto Motorsports Management Centre general manager Samantha Liu told Visordown the centre is not a standalone team. It sits next to the existing R&D industrial design team and will help in several fields, not only MotoGP. She said it will be a long road and the company is prepared to be patient.

Don't expect a quick debut. All five MotoGP manufacturers are locked into a commercial agreement until 2031, and the series doesn't need new entrants. CFMoto must decide whether to join midway through the 850 cc era or wait for the next rule change.

For now the brand races in Moto3 and Moto2, and from next year it will be the exclusive bike supplier for the FIM Women's Circuit Racing World Championship (WorldWCR).

• 850 cc regulations — from 2027
• MotoGP manufacturers' agreement — until 2031