Motorsports
MotoGP debut rider Toprak Razgatlioglu: “It’s not an easy year, but it’s a great challenge. It’s probably a learning season for me. Maybe in 2027, with the new rules, I can fight for a podium.”
This Tuesday, January 13th, MotoGP 2026 team presentation, the first team to reveal their cards was Pramac Yamaha. The Japanese brand’s satellite team chose Siena’s Chigi Saracini Palace, a setting full of symbolism, to present its new project. Toprak Razgatrioglu’s debut in the highest class and Yamaha’s decisive approach to V4 engines.
Turkish pilot, 3-time WorldSBK World Champion (2021, 2024, 2025)lived the presentation with emotion and a smile that was difficult to hide. “I’m living a very special moment. A dream has finally come true.”. I’m very happy to be joining Pramac and Yamaha in MotoGP. This decision was the right one as the team and all members are very warm-hearted. I will give it my all every weekend,” he said during the event.
Razgatlioglu arrived in MotoGP after conquering WorldSBK, but realizes that Moving between categories and paddocks requires patience. The rider himself admitted that his first feeling in MotoGP after the Valencia test was exciting, but also revealing. “They were very positive.. After the super bike, When you ride MotoGP you realize it’s a completely different bike. Acceleration is incredible and really fast in a straight line. ”He explained.
But Turks insisted they needed time to adapt. “We need to learn a lot, especially about the tires. We have to feel the limits.”. There are many challenges ahead. We have six days in Malaysia and I hope I can understand the bike and find a way to adapt. “It’s a completely different bike, so it just takes time.”he calmly pointed out.
Rather than setting unrealistic goals, Razgatlioglu was cautious. It’s the first season of MotoGP. “This year is not an easy year, it’s a big challenge.”. Perhaps this is a season of learning for me. In 2027, new rules could mean we’ll be competing for a podium spot. We’ll see what happens in 2026, but it’s a very important year for me. “I have to adapt to the bike and learn some circuits,” he said.
Still, the pilot revealed no lack of ambition and commitment. “As always, I will do my best to achieve the best possible results. We are a big family and Everyone gives their best every weekend. “I’ll do it too.”he concluded, marking the beginning of one of the most anticipated stages of his sporting career.
Source: Mundo Deportivo
I am a writer at Sportish, where I mainly cover sports news. I’ve also written for The Guardian and ESPN Brasil, and my work has been featured on NBC Sports, SI.com and more. Before working in journalism, I was an athlete: I played football for Colgate University and competed in the US Open Cross Country Championships.
