Yamaha to Debut All-New V4 MotoGP Engine at San Marino GP

Yamaha’s long-awaited V4 prototype to face Grand Prix conditions for the first time.

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The wait is almost over! Yamaha’s long-rumored V4 engine is finally set to make its MotoGP debut at the San Marino Grand Prix this September. The Iwata factory confirmed that Test Rider Augusto Fernandez will race the V4-powered prototype M1 at Round 16, marking a monumental step in Yamaha’s MotoGP project.

The V4 concept was first revealed last September before undergoing private testing at Ricardo Tormo Circuit and Barcelona-Catalunya earlier this year. Now, Misano will serve as its official first outing in Grand Prix conditions.

Yamaha Motor Racing Managing Director Paolo Pavesio announced the news via social media:

“I have some important news to share. For Misano, we are targeting to see Augusto Fernandez racing our new M1 prototype with the V4 engine for the very first time. This is an excellent preview and concrete sign of our commitment to the future, while we continue to push with determination to get the best out of every race weekend.”

Why the V4 Matters

For decades, Yamaha has stuck with its inline-4 layout, even as rivals like Ducati, Honda, Aprilia, and KTM embraced the V4. The decision to switch marks a historic change in philosophy, as the V4 promises quicker acceleration and better top speed, especially crucial on long straights where Yamaha’s inline-4 has often been outgunned.

Since the start of 2023, every MotoGP race has been won by a V4-powered machine. The last inline-4 victory came at the 2022 Valencia GP, courtesy of Alex Rins on a Suzuki.

V4 vs Inline-4: The Key Differences

V4 Engine: Cylinders arranged in a V-shape (90º in MotoGP), compact design, lighter crankshaft; stronger acceleration and corner exit performance.

Inline-4 Engine: Cylinders in a straight line across the frame, longer crankshaft; smoother handling and more stability mid-corner, but lacks acceleration punch.

In qualifying trim, the inline-4 can maximize its advantages, but in race conditions, where overtaking on straights matters most, the V4 dominates.

What’s Next?

The San Marino GP will provide Yamaha with valuable live race data as development continues. While Fernandez will be the one riding the V4 in Misano, the long-term goal is to prepare the factory riders for a competitive return to the front of MotoGP.

With this bold switch, Yamaha is signaling its determination to rejoin the title fight and Misano could be the first glimpse of a new era for the M1.