MotoGP Returns to Termas de Rio Hondo After 2024 Hiatus
Michelin Develops Tailored Tire Package Based on Extensive Data Analysis
MICHELIN Power Slick Tires Ready to Tackle the Aggressive, Low-Grip Track
Michelin Set for New Challenge at 2025 Argentina GP
The MotoGP World Championship is set to return to Termas de Rio Hondo in Argentina after the cancellation of the 2024 event. To prepare for this demanding circuit, Michelin has developed a specialized tire package based on an extensive database. The MICHELIN Power Slicks will feature three front compound options and two rear compound options to adapt to the challenging conditions.
Previous Argentina GP Highlights
In the 2023 Argentina GP, Brad Binder claimed victory in the Tissot Sprint, while Marco Bezzecchi triumphed in the wet Sunday race. The slick tires for dry conditions and the Power Rain tires for wet conditions were key components in the competitors’ performances.
The Challenge of a Demanding Circuit
Opened in 2008 and resurfaced in 2014, Termas de Rio Hondo is a 4.806 km circuit known for its challenges. During the end of Argentina’s summer, track temperatures can exceed 50°C, putting severe stress on bikes and tires. The 1,078-meter long straight and the heavy braking zones that follow contribute to intense thermal variations.
Insights from Michelin’s Piero Taramasso
“This circuit is quite unique. The asphalt is aggressive to the tires, but the low usage frequency results in low grip levels. After a two-year hiatus, teams will need to start bike setups from scratch. We have chosen the same front tire compounds as in 2023, while the rear options include soft and medium compounds. The medium is slightly softer than last year to better meet our partners’ needs. Both front and rear tires are symmetrical, but teams must be mindful of the cornering bias (five left, nine right). The initial practice sessions will be key, and Michelin will provide full support.”
For wet conditions, the MICHELIN Power Rain will be available. The front tires will come in symmetrical soft and medium compounds, while the rear will feature an asymmetrical compound with reinforced material on the right side to handle the track’s demands.
Records to Break
- Lap Record: Marc Marquez (2014, 1’37.683)
- Most Wins & Pole Positions: Marc Marquez (3 wins, 5 poles)
- Fastest Race Lap: Valentino Rossi (2015, 1’39.019)
- Top Speed: Jorge Martin (2023, 345.5 km/h)
2025 Argentina GP Schedule
March 14 (Friday)
- Free Practice 1: 10:45 – 11:30
- Free Practice 2: 15:00 – 16:00 (Top 10 advance to Q2)
March 15 (Saturday)
- Free Practice 3: 10:10 – 10:40
- Qualifying Q1: 11:15 – 11:30
- Qualifying Q2: 11:40 – 11:55
- Tissot Sprint (12 laps): 15:00~
March 16 (Sunday)
- Race (25 laps): 15:00~
(Photo courtesy of Michelin)