Fabio Quartararo and Alex Rins Will Leave Yamaha Factory MotoGP Team 

The Japanese manufacturer announced the departure of both riders at the end of the 2026 season, bringing an end to Quartararo’s eight-year partnership with Yamaha.

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Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. has officially confirmed that both Fabio Quartararo and Alex Rins will leave the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team at the conclusion of the 2026 MotoGP season.

The announcement marks the end of one of the most successful rider-manufacturer partnerships in recent Yamaha history, with Quartararo closing an eight-year stint that included a MotoGP World Championship and multiple race victories.

Quartararo joined Yamaha in 2019 and quickly established himself as one of the championship’s leading riders. During his time aboard the YZR-M1, the Frenchman claimed 11 Grand Prix victories, 32 podium finishes and secured the 2021 MotoGP World Championship, becoming Yamaha’s first premier class champion since Jorge Lorenzo in 2015.

Beyond his achievements on track, Quartararo also became one of Yamaha’s most recognisable riders, earning widespread support from fans for his determination, personality and commitment throughout both successful and challenging periods with the Japanese manufacturer.

Meanwhile, Rins joined the factory Yamaha squad in 2024 after previously racing for Suzuki, LCR Honda and the satellite Yamaha outfit. Although his results were often hampered by injuries, the Spaniard played an important role in developing the YZR-M1 and contributed valuable technical feedback during Yamaha’s rebuilding phase.

Despite announcing their departures, Yamaha confirmed that both riders will remain fully committed to the team for the remainder of the 2026 MotoGP campaign as they aim to deliver the best possible results before parting ways.

Yamaha Motor Racing Managing Director Paolo Pavesio thanked both riders for their contribution to the factory programme.

“Fabio and Álex have both played an important role in Yamaha’s MotoGP project, and we are very grateful for their efforts, dedication and collaboration over the years,” said Pavesio.

He described Quartararo as one of Yamaha’s modern MotoGP legends, highlighting the highs and lows they experienced together over eight seasons.

“Together, we have grown, celebrated achievements that have shaped our story, and faced challenges that have strengthened us. Beyond the results, it is this journey that defines our relationship, and in the end, Fabio will always remain one of the true legends of Yamaha MotoGP.”

Speaking about Rins, Pavesio praised the Spaniard’s experience and technical input since joining the team in 2024.

“Álex has brought valuable experience, meaningful insight and unwavering commitment, playing an important role in the development of the YZR-M1 project.”

While Yamaha has yet to announce its rider line-up for the 2027 MotoGP season, the departure of both Quartararo and Rins signals a major change for the factory squad as the championship prepares to enter a new technical era under the 2027 regulations.

Further announcements regarding Yamaha’s future rider plans are expected in the coming months.