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| Toprak Razgatlioglu Optimistic Ahead of MotoGP 2026: Yamaha V4 Shows Promise, Podium Hopes Emerging. |
What can Toprak Razgatlioglu realistically achieve in his rookie MotoGP season in 2026? That question is starting to gain traction as the three-time WorldSBK champion prepares to take the biggest step of his career.
The Turkish star is set to make his MotoGP debut in 2026 with the Pramac Yamaha team, riding Yamaha’s all-new V4-powered machine. The challenge is huge, but so is the potential.
Speaking during the team launch on Tuesday night, Toprak made it clear that he is not chasing instant results. Instead, he is focused on long-term growth and steady development.
“This is a new chapter in my career, and from the very beginning I want to approach it with a long-term development mindset,” Toprak said.
At the Valencia MotoGP test last November, he finished 18th out of 22 riders. While the result may not look spectacular on paper, Toprak views it as a positive starting point, especially after completing several private test sessions beforehand. He also admitted there is still plenty of work to do.
Known for his exceptional braking skills in WorldSBK, Toprak has already identified encouraging signs from the Yamaha YZR-M1 V4, particularly when accelerating out of corners.
“The first tests with the new V4 have been positive, especially in terms of acceleration and corner exit,” he explained.
However, Toprak understands that MotoGP success doesn’t come overnight. Consistent progress, data analysis, and strong teamwork are key.
“This is just the beginning. In MotoGP, performance comes from continuous work, sharing data, and improving step by step. My main goal this season is development—adapting to MotoGP, understanding the bike, understanding the competition, and building consistency race by race,” he said.
“For now, the process matters more than the results. I’ll give my best every lap, and with patience, commitment, and teamwork, I believe we’re moving in the right direction.”
Confidence in Toprak’s progress is also shared by his manager, Kenan Sofuoglu, a former five-time World Supersport champion. He believes the upcoming Sepang test will suit Toprak far better.
“In Valencia, the M1 wasn’t completely suited to Toprak’s needs,” Sofuoglu said. “But in Sepang, I think he’ll be 90 percent there, even in terms of position. Considering the speed he already showed, he actually exceeded expectations.”
When asked about realistic targets for 2026, Sofuoglu didn’t rule out podium finishes.
“I think he can get a couple of podiums,” he said. “Sometimes you need a bit of luck—weather conditions or grip—but I believe he’ll find a way.”
Toprak is scheduled to join teammate Jack Miller and the Monster Yamaha factory riders at the Sepang Shakedown later this month, before facing the full MotoGP grid in the official test from February 3 to 5.
After spending his rookie season on Michelin tires, Toprak will switch back to Pirelli rubber when MotoGP enters its new 850cc era in 2027.
“I believe that in 2027, I can do something special,” Toprak told Sky Italia.
That confidence echoes recent comments from Sylvain Guintoli, who stated, “In 2027, Toprak is going to be a real weapon.”
With a patient mindset, strong team support, and Yamaha’s new V4 project, Toprak Razgatlioglu’s MotoGP journey is shaping up to be one worth watching.