Source: Ducati Corse.

A control ECU including software will be mandatory as of the 2016 MotoGP World Championship, the Grand Prix Commission has confirmed overnight.

All current and prospective participants in the MotoGP class will collaborate to assist with the design and development of the championship ECU software, according to an announcement from the FIM.

During the development of the software a closed user web site will be set up to enable participants to monitor software development and to input their suggested modifications.

With immediate effect ahead of the 2014 season opener this weekend, a new or manufacturer with entries under the ‘Factory’ option who has not achieved a win in dry conditions in the previous year is entitled to use 12 engines per rider per season (no design freezing), 24 litres of fuel and the same tyres allocation and testing opportunities as the Open category.

This concession is valid until the start of the 2016 season, except for if riders from the same manufacturer achieve a race win, two second places or three podium places in dry conditions during the 2014 season.

For that manufacturer the fuel tank capacity will be reduced to 22 litres. Furthermore, should the same manufacturer achieve three race wins in the 2014 season, the manufacturer would also lose the right to use the soft tyres available to Open category entries.

In each case the reduced concessions will apply to the remaining events of the 2014 season and the whole of the 2015 season.

The news comes off the back of Ducati opting to enter its factory team as an ‘Open’ entry this season, however the updated regulations considering the brand hasn’t won in MotoGP for over 12 months means the Italian manufacturer will remain a Factory entry, albeit with expanded options until it starts challenging for victories and podiums.