Toprak Razgatlioglu
Toprak Razgatlioglu Set to Join MotoGP with Pramac Yamaha in 2026
In a seismic shift within the world of motorcycle racing, reigning World Superbike (WorldSBK) Champion Toprak Razgatlioglu is all but confirmed to make his long-anticipated move to MotoGP in 2026, with reports strongly indicating that the Turkish sensation has signed with Pramac Yamaha. This move has been years in the making, and according to multiple credible paddock sources, it is now just a matter of time before the deal is officially announced.
A Dream Finally Realized
Toprak Razgatlioglu has long been considered one of the most talented and electrifying riders outside of MotoGP. His aggressive, rear-wheel-steering style and fearless late braking have made him a fan favorite in WorldSBK, where he clinched the world title in 2021 and has continued to challenge for top honors with consistency and flair.
Ever since his breakthrough season, speculation has swirled about a potential jump to MotoGP. The rumors intensified when Toprak tested a Yamaha MotoGP machine in 2022 and again in 2023, though at the time both parties indicated that the timing wasn’t quite right. But it seems that time has now come.
Why Pramac Yamaha?
What raises eyebrows is the team Razgatlioglu is reported to be joining — Pramac Yamaha — a name that, as of 2025, does not currently exist in the MotoGP paddock. Pramac has long been Ducati’s lead satellite team, but recent developments suggest a potential manufacturer switch is in the works, potentially ahead of the 2026 season.
If true, and if Pramac is indeed transitioning to become a Yamaha-supported squad, this would represent a major reorganization in MotoGP’s team structure. Yamaha has been in desperate need of expanding its presence on the grid, having operated with just two factory bikes in recent years. Pramac’s arrival as a satellite Yamaha team would give the Iwata factory much-needed additional data and support to compete against the dominant Ducati armada.
Replacing Miller or Oliveira?
Razgatlioglu is expected to take the place of either Jack Miller or Miguel Oliveira, two riders who have struggled for consistent form and results in recent seasons. Miller, once a factory Ducati and KTM rider, has been linked with a number of teams but hasn’t locked down a long-term MotoGP future. Oliveira, while highly talented, has also battled injuries and inconsistency.
Neither currently rides for Pramac, which only adds to the intrigue. This could imply that Yamaha and Pramac are planning an entirely new rider line-up, centered around Razgatlioglu as the headline act for a 2026 reboot.
A Strategic Move Ahead of the Pirelli Era
One of the most compelling reasons behind Yamaha’s push for Razgatlioglu is undoubtedly his extensive experience with Pirelli tyres. MotoGP is set to transition from Michelin to Pirelli as the exclusive tyre supplier starting in 2027, a move that will drastically change how teams develop and set up their bikes.
Few riders in the world are as attuned to the characteristics of Pirelli rubber as Razgatlioglu. His familiarity with their grip profile, degradation patterns, and feedback loops will be invaluable during the adaptation phase, giving Yamaha a potential head start in the new tyre era. It’s a rare instance where a rider’s knowledge of a single equipment supplier could directly influence a manufacturer’s long-term competitive strategy.
Full Factory Support
Another significant detail emerging from reports is that Razgatlioglu will receive full factory-spec machinery and support. This is a strong indication that Yamaha is not treating this move as a mere experiment. Rather, they see Toprak as a central pillar of their MotoGP future.
Given Yamaha’s recent struggles in the championship and the need to revitalize their competitiveness, Toprak’s signing could be seen as both a short-term performance boost and a long-term investment.
Official Announcement Expected at Mugello
Sources say that the deal will be officially unveiled during the 2025 Italian Grand Prix at Mugello, one of the most iconic and high-profile events on the MotoGP calendar. An announcement at Mugello would guarantee maximum visibility, media coverage, and fan reaction — particularly in Europe, where Razgatlioglu enjoys a massive following.
What This Means for WorldSBK
While MotoGP gains a star, WorldSBK loses one. Razgatlioglu’s departure will leave a significant void in the championship, especially as he has been one of the few riders able to consistently challenge the dominance of Alvaro Bautista and Ducati. Yamaha will need to find a strong replacement for their WorldSBK program, but that is a conversation for another day.
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Final Thoughts
Toprak Razgatlioglu’s move to MotoGP is not just a career milestone for the Turkish rider — it’s a strategic coup for Yamaha and a potential game-changer for the sport. With the looming tyre transition, a shifting team landscape, and a rider of Toprak’s calibre entering the fray, MotoGP in 2026 and beyond looks set for a dramatic new chapter.
As fans await the official confirmation at Mugello, one thing is clear: Toprak Razgatlioglu is finally MotoGP-bound, and the premier class may never be the same again.
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