Yamaha Unveils V4-Powered YZR-M1, Set for San Marino GP Wild-Card Debut

Yamaha unveils its all-new V4-powered YZR-M1 at Misano, with test rider Augusto Fernández set for a wild-card debut and Quartararo and Rins to sample the prototype in public.

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Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. has officially taken the wraps off its much-anticipated V4-powered YZR-M1, which will make its race debut this weekend at the San Marino Grand Prix in the hands of test rider Augusto Fernandez. The unveiling took place on Thursday inside the Misano paddock, with the prototype sporting a striking predominantly blue livery.

The new machine represents a major turning point for Yamaha, marking the end of its long-standing inline-four tradition in MotoGP. Fabio Quartararo and Álex Rins will also get another opportunity to ride the bike during Monday’s official Misano MotoGP Test, following Quartararo’s first private outing at Barcelona earlier this week.

A New Era for Yamaha

Although Yamaha’s V4 has been in development and testing for several months, all sessions until now were held behind closed doors. Its public debut at Misano underscores the Japanese manufacturer’s commitment to resetting its MotoGP project after recent struggles.

The shift from an inline-four to a V4 engine layout required a complete redesign of the M1’s chassis and dimensions. Yamaha had long been the only brand on the grid still using an inline-four, but after years of stagnation, it determined the configuration had reached its ceiling.

Despite upcoming regulation changes in 2027 that will downsize MotoGP engines to 850cc, Yamaha has pressed ahead with its 1000cc V4, with full debut targeted for 2026.

Takahiro Sumi: “A Company Effort”

“We have taken on an ambitious project developing a new V4 engine and a whole new bike, and it is particularly demanding when done simultaneously with the 2025 bike development,” said Takahiro Sumi, General Manager of Yamaha’s Motor Sports Development Division.

“Such a challenge comes with high stakes and pressure: it’s the type of project that can only be done right when it’s not just a ‘team effort’ but a ‘company effort’, and all involved have to give it 100%.

“From the start of the V4 project there were many questions to be answered, and we are still in the development stage, but one thing is for certain: our goal is to return Yamaha to winning ways with an evidence-based approach.

“The V4-powered prototype reflects one integrated project where Japan and Europe share responsibilities and expertise.

“Thanks to the hard work of Project Leader Kazuhiro Masuda, Technical Director Max Bartolini, the Yamaha engineers, the Yamaha Factory Racing Test Team, the test riders, the technical partners, and all others who contributed, we are able to take strategic steps and make progress.

“We thank the fans for their never-failing support, and we hope that they will continue to show interest in our journey back to the pinnacle of motorcycle road racing.

“Exploration is part of Yamaha’s DNA. The V4-powered prototype opens an additional technical pathway. We will race what proves most competitive.”

Positive Rider Feedback

The V4 project has already logged significant private mileage with Fernandez and input from Andrea Dovizioso, with encouraging results.

“Since the very first outing in Malaysia, the project has given me very positive feelings,” said Dovizioso. “From the moment I tried the V4-powered prototype, I liked it straight away. With every run the feeling has improved, and I’ve always sensed great potential.”

Project leader Masuda added: “At this stage, I’m pleased to report that the progress is in line with our expectations. If all goes well this weekend and on Monday, subsequent steps include further testing at Sepang and Valencia.”

Fernandez confirmed as long-term tester

Yamaha also confirmed that Augusto Fernandez will remain as its official test rider for both 2026 and 2027. His wild-card appearance at Misano is designed solely for data gathering rather than results, providing Yamaha with crucial race-weekend insights as it develops the V4 for full-time competition.