Yamaha R9 Makes a Stunning WorldSSP Debut

Yamaha’s all-new R9 makes a spectacular debut in the FIM Supersport World Championship, claiming victory in its first-ever race. Read how this Next Generation Supersport machine is set to redefine WorldSSP racing.

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A new chapter in Yamaha Racing history began in spectacular fashion as the all-new Yamaha R9 made its competitive debut in the FIM Supersport World Championship (WorldSSP) at Phillip Island, Australia. As far as racing debuts go, Yamaha’s Next Generation Supersport machine did not disappoint, proving itself a worthy successor to the legendary Yamaha R6.

A Bold Step Forward

Introducing a brand-new motorcycle at the world championship level is always a challenge, even more so when the bike replacing it carries an iconic legacy. The Yamaha R6, which had dominated WorldSSP for years, left massive shoes to fill. However, the development team at Yamaha Motor Europe Motorsport Research and Development had been preparing for this moment in strict secrecy since early 2024, working in close collaboration with engineers from Japan.

The Yamaha R9 is more than just a new race machine; it represents a significant shift for Yamaha’s supersport racing program. Recognizing the importance of the project, Yamaha assembled its strongest-ever team lineup for the WorldSSP season, enlisting three former World Champion teams:

• Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing
• Yamaha BLU CRU Evan Bros Racing
• GMT94 Yamaha

Between them, they fielded six riders, balancing a mix of seasoned veterans and young talents to maximize the R9’s potential on the world stage.

From Testing to Racing: The R9’s First Steps

Yamaha’s first proper taste of the R9 in WorldSSP specification came during a shakedown test at Cremona, Italy, in November 2024. Following this, the teams embarked on their own pre-season testing programs, though poor weather in Europe limited their time on track. As a result, the first race of the season in Australia became the ultimate proving ground for the R9.

Expectations were high, but the official pre-season test at Phillip Island hinted at the R9’s potential. Then, as the race weekend commenced, Yamaha saw immediate results—Lucas Mahias (GMT94 Yamaha) secured a front-row start, proving the bike was already a contender.

A Debut to Remember

The R9’s first race in WorldSSP was nothing short of thrilling. Multiple R9s were in the mix throughout the two-part race, which included a mandatory pit stop at the midway point. And in a storybook moment, Stefano Manzi (Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing)—a two-time WorldSSP runner-up—claimed victory in the R9’s first-ever race. Even more fitting, Manzi had also won the final race of the R6 era, 126 days earlier, creating a poetic transition from one Yamaha icon to the next.

What’s Next for the Yamaha R9?

With a dream debut now behind them, Yamaha and its teams will focus on refining and maximizing the R9’s potential throughout the 2025 WorldSSP season. The bike has already demonstrated raw speed and competitiveness, but as development continues, it will only get stronger.

The legacy of Yamaha’s Supersport machines continues with the R9, and if its performance in Australia is any indication, it may soon dominate WorldSSP just as its predecessor once did.