Toprak Razgatlioglu: I may fail to get my first MotoGP podium in 2026

Toprak Razgatlioglu has conceded that he may not be able to score a podium in his rookie season in MotoGP this year.

Pramac’s new signing Razgatlioglu is among the most high-profile recruits to the premier class in recent years, having won three World Superbike titles in the past five seasons.

But despite his pedigree, the Turk faces a steep learning curve in MotoGP, with Yamaha’s V4-powered M1 representing a significant step up from the BMW M1000R he raced in World Superbikes in 2024-2025.

Razgatlioglu’s manager Kenan Sofuoglu has spoken openly about his expectations for the 29-year-old, insisting the goal is to challenge 2021 MotoGP champion Fabio Quartararo within Yamaha’s rider line-up.

But Razgatlioglu himself is keeping his ambitions in check, admitting it could be 2027 before he is able to fight for a first MotoGP podium.

“It's not an easy year for me because this is a really big challenge for me,” he said at Pramac’s launch event. 

“2026 is maybe the learning year for me. But 2027, after the new rules, maybe we are fighting for the podium. 

“This year is really important for me. I need to adapt to the bike and I also need to learn some tracks. But I will try to do my best, like always.

“We are a big family. And everyone tries their best every year, every race weekend. And me too, I will try to do my best.”

Toprak Razgatlioglu, Pramac Racing

Photo by: Dorna

Razgatlioglu had two opportunities to familiarise himself with Yamaha’s MotoGP bike at the end of 2025, first during a private session at Aragon and then at the official post-season test in Valencia.

One of the biggest challenges awaiting him in 2026 is the switch from Pirelli to Michelin, with managing tyres having become such a key part in a rider’s performance in MotoGP.

It is widely expected that Razgatlioglu could become more competitive in 2027 when Pirelli becomes MotoGP’s official tyre supplier. Even then, however, the Italian manufacturer will provide bespoke tyres designed specifically for the premier class.

Asked to explain the differences between the two bikes, Razgatlioglu admitted that he was surprised by the straightline speed of the M1 prototype.

“[My first impressions are] very positive because after Superbike, when I'm riding the MotoGP, it's a completely different bike,” he said. “Especially the acceleration is incredible, and on the straight, it's really fast. 

“But I need the time to adapt to the bike and I need to learn. Especially with the tyres, I need to feel the limit. 

“We have a lot of time because we have many tests, especially in Malaysia, where we have a six-day test, and I hope we find a way to understand the bike and need to adapt, because this is a completely different bike. I just need time.”