Marc Marquez was seen during the Qatar MotoGP Pre-Season Tests in Qatar on February 18, 2024. MotoGP announced changes to tire pressure regulations that were initially implemented during the 2023 season. These changes were made in response to teams using front tires with extremely low pressure, which provides more grip but also increases the risk of damage and potential failures. To protect riders from possible damage, tire supplier Michelin introduced a minimum front tire pressure requirement of 1.88 bar, which must be maintained for at least 50% of sprint and grand prix races. MotoGP introduced a penalty system for riders who fell below this minimum pressure level, with plans to instantly disqualify them in 2024. However, these plans have now been abandoned and instead riders who violate the minimum pressure requirement will receive a 16-second time penalty, reduced to eight seconds during sprint races. Additionally, Michelin has reduced the minimum tire pressure to 1.80 bar, making it easier for teams and riders to stay within the acceptable range without sacrificing front grip. Consequently, riders must now maintain the minimum pressure for 60% of grand prix races and 30% of sprint races. It is important to note that tire pressure regulations do not apply during flag-to-flag competitions and only apply to slick tires. Therefore, riders and teams are free to choose tire pressure for Michelin wet tires based on prevailing conditions.
