Yamaha to Field Augusto Fernández as Wild Card at Spanish MotoGP

Test rider set to gather crucial data as Yamaha begins 2026 development programme in Jerez.

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Yamaha Factory Racing Team will begin its 2026 MotoGP testing programme with a wild-card entry at the Spanish Grand Prix, with Augusto Fernández set to take to the track at Circuito de Jerez – Ángel Nieto.

The appearance marks Yamaha’s first wild-card outing of the season, with a clear focus on gathering valuable race data to accelerate development of its MotoGP machine.

Focus on Development

Fernández, Yamaha’s official test rider, will use the race weekend to maximise track time and contribute to the team’s ongoing technical progress. The Spaniard, who is the 2022 Moto2 World Champion, has already been involved in pre-season testing alongside Yamaha’s full-time riders.

His participation in Jerez is part of a broader strategy to refine performance through real race conditions.

Return to Familiar Ground

The Spanish Grand Prix holds particular significance for Fernández. He previously achieved a podium finish at Jerez in Moto2 in 2019, while his best MotoGP result at the circuit came in 2023 with a 13th-place finish.

“I am very excited about my first wild card of the season, especially since it’s in Jerez. It’s been a long winter with not many kilometres on the MotoGP bike, so I can’t wait to be back on track,” said Fernández.

Iconic Venue for MotoGP

The Circuito de Jerez – Ángel Nieto, built in 1986, remains one of the most iconic venues on the MotoGP calendar. Known for its fast corners, heavy braking zones and natural amphitheatre layout, the 4.42 km circuit consistently delivers competitive racing and strong fan attendance.

Looking Ahead

With this wild-card entry, Yamaha aims to gain deeper insights into bike performance under race conditions as it continues to close the gap to its rivals.

The Spanish Grand Prix will serve as a key step in Yamaha’s 2026 development efforts, with Fernández playing a central role in shaping the team’s progress for the remainder of the season.