Razgatlioglu to make MotoGP™ debut in 2026

It’s finally official. Turkish superstar Toprak Razgatlioglu will make the long-anticipated switch from World Superbikes to MotoGP™ in 2026.

After weeks of speculation, Yamaha has confirmed that Razgatlioglu will join the factory-supported Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP™ Team next season. It’s a major move for one of the sport’s most exciting and successful riders.

Fans of WorldSBK already know what Toprak brings to the table. With 63 career victories and two WorldSBK titles (2021 and 2025), he’s the second most successful rider in the championship’s history. His aggressive riding style and larger-than-life personality have earned him a huge global following, and now he’s ready to take on the premier class.

Yamaha Motor Racing Managing Director Paolo Pavesio welcomed the move, saying:

“We are thrilled to welcome Toprak back into the Yamaha family. Toprak, the most victorious Yamaha rider of all time in Superbike, has proven to be an exceptional talent, securing the WorldSBK Title twice, which is no mean feat.

His transition to MotoGP™ is both a 'homecoming' and an exciting new challenge that's been set up with the clear goal of progressive growth over time. His fighting spirit and determination are a perfect fit for both the Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP™ Team and Yamaha's bold MotoGP™ strategy, so we believe 2026 is the right time to make the move that many fans have been waiting for.”

The announcement also raises questions about the current Pramac Yamaha line-up. Aussie fans in particular will be wondering what this means for Jack Miller’s future. While nothing has been confirmed, Miller has had a stronger season so far, scoring 33 points compared to teammate Miguel Oliveira’s 3. That performance gap could give the Queenslander an edge in retaining his seat alongside Razgatlioglu.

No matter how the team shapes up, all eyes will be on Razgatlioglu in 2026 as he takes on the challenge of adapting to MotoGP™ machinery. It’s never an easy transition, but if anyone has the skill and determination to make it work, it’s Toprak.

Aussie fans will get their first chance to see the Turkish star race a MotoGP™ bike on home soil when the championship returns to Phillip Island in 2026.