Toprak Razgatlioglu Poised for MotoGP Switch with Yamaha in 2026

Two-time WorldSBK champion ‘El Turco’ reportedly set for MotoGP debut next season; official announcement expected at Mugello Grand Prix.

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The MotoGP paddock is alive with anticipation as strong rumours indicate Toprak Razgatlioglu, the reigning World Superbike Champion, is on the verge of signing with Yamaha for a long-awaited move to MotoGP in 2026.

The 27-year-old Turkish sensation, already a two-time WorldSBK champion with both Yamaha and BMW, is reportedly closing in on a deal that could be formally announced as early as the Mugello Grand Prix, set for June 20–22, according to reports from Sky Italia and GPOne.

Razgatlioglu’s current contract with BMW expires at the end of 2025, and while multiple options were rumoured to be on the table, MotoGP now appears to be the clear priority. The rider has previously hinted that this could be his last serious chance to make the jump to the premier class. “Toprak wants MotoGP in 2026,” GPOne reported. “And Yamaha is on the verge of offering it to him.”

Yamaha’s Reshuffling Plan

Yamaha currently relies on Fabio Quartararo, whose recent pole-position streak has not translated into race wins due to technical setbacks. Alex Rins, still recovering from a serious 2023 crash, is yet to return to peak form. Jack Miller and Miguel Oliveira, both on one-year deals, face mounting pressure amid inconsistent results and injury woes.

Toprak’s arrival would mark a strategic shift for Yamaha, with Yamaha Racing Managing Director Paolo Pavesio previously stating that decisions about the 2026 line-up would be made around the summer break. While publicly maintaining that mid-July is the timeline, insiders claim Yamaha’s direction is already clear. “He’s still today the most victorious Yamaha Superbike rider ever,” Pavesio said. “And it’s a very respectful relationship, which will keep going.”

Why Now, and Why Toprak?

Razgatlioglu’s aggressive braking style, adaptability in extreme conditions, and familiarity with Pirelli tyres, which will replace Michelin in MotoGP from 2027, make him a prime candidate for the move. His youth, proven success, and low financial demands further sweeten the deal for Yamaha.

Notably, despite an underwhelming previous MotoGP test with Yamaha, his relationship with Pavesio is said to have played a pivotal role in re-opening the door. Additionally, MotoGP’s new owners Liberty Media see Turkey’s unexplored market as a golden opportunity for global expansion, making Toprak a marketing asset as much as a racing one.

The Bigger Picture

Should the deal go through, it’s unclear who Toprak would directly replace, though Jack Miller’s contract runs out at the end of 2025, and his seat looks the most vulnerable. 

Ducati sporting director Davide Tardozzi has also weighed in, saying Razgatlioglu “has the level to aim for the top six in MotoGP from the beginning,” reinforcing that this is a low-risk, high-reward bet for Yamaha.

What’s Next?

While no official confirmation has yet been made, all signs point to a major announcement during Yamaha’s home race at Mugello, potentially alongside Pramac Racing’s 2026 rider reveal. For now, fans wait with bated breath: the arrival of the ‘El Turco’ in MotoGP could soon be more than just a rumour, it could be reality.