Toprak headed for MotoGP in 2026
The reigning World Superbike champion will switch to MotoGP in move that will shake up the paddockWorld superbike star Toprak Razgatlioglu has confirmed he will make a high-profile switch to MotoGP for the 2026 season.
The Turkish rider is the reigning WorldSBK champion and currently sits second in the standings for the 2025 season.
But the factory BMW pilot will join Pramac Yamaha for the 2026 MotoGP season in a move that is sure to shake up the paddock.
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Yamaha executive Paolo Pavesio described the signing as a “homecoming” after Razgatlioglu won the 2021 WSBK title with Yamaha and tested the YZR-M1 at Jerez in 2023.
“We are thrilled to welcome Toprak back into the Yamaha family,” said Pavesio. “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.”
Yamaha did not provide details of the deal or where this leaves current Pramac riders Jack Miller and Miguel Oliveira.
Australia’s Miller is out of contract at the end of 2025, while Oliveira is contracted until the end of the 2026 season. Miller has indicated his intention to remain at Pramac and in MotoGP, but he has also been linked with a move to WorldSBK. Oliveira meanwhile isn’t living up to his potential and currently sits a lowly 23rd in the championship.
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