Yamaha has conceded that its ability to retain Fabio Quartararo beyond 2026 will hinge on delivering a far more competitive MotoGP package ahead of the sport’s major regulation overhaul in 2027.
The Japanese manufacturer endured another difficult campaign in 2025, finishing last in the Constructors’ Championship. Quartararo was Yamaha’s only grand prix finisher at Jerez, underlining the ongoing struggles of the M1.
The 2021 world champion has not won a premier class race since 2022 and has grown increasingly vocal about his frustration. Quartararo has previously stated that he would consider his future options if Yamaha fails to provide a bike capable of fighting at the front.
The timing is critical, with the 2027 technical regulations expected to trigger significant changes across the grid. A total of 19 rider contracts expire at the end of 2026, setting the stage for a wide-open rider market.
At present, Yamaha has only one rider signed through to 2027: WorldSBK champion Toprak Razgatlioglu, who will join the Pramac Yamaha team alongside Jack Miller after securing three Superbike titles.
Yamaha managing director Paolo Pavesio admitted that performance on track will be decisive in keeping Quartararo.
“What we can do is make the bike more competitive, so the project becomes more attractive and our riders are happy, especially Fabio,” Pavesio said. “If he finds what he’s looking for, I believe he will be happy to continue with us.”
Yamaha remains cautious about discussing future rider plans publicly. Factory rider Alex Rins faces an uncertain future after finishing behind both Quartararo and Miller within the Yamaha ranks in 2025, while Miller has strengthened his position through his involvement in the brand’s V4 development project.
Given his reputation for extracting results beyond the M1’s potential, Quartararo is expected to attract strong interest from rival teams should he become available.
Pavesio acknowledged that early rider market movements are already underway but stopped short of revealing Yamaha’s strategy.
“At some point, when the first decisions are made, there will be a domino effect,” he said. “These are the rules of the game, and we have to understand them and try to do our best.”
