MotoGP News: Yamaha Quizzed On Leaving Out Special Talent From WSBK For 2025 Season

Saajan Jogia | Jul 9, 2024

Apr 13, 2024; Austin, TX, USA; Alex Rins (42) of Spain and Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP rides during practice for the MotoGP Grand Prix of the Americas at Circuit of The Americas. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports / Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Former WSBK Champion Neil Hodgson quizzed Yamaha about why it hasn't approached WSBK talent Toprak Razgatlioglu for the 2025 season. Hodgson emphasized Razgatlioglu's current championship-leading position and his adeptness at quickly adapting to different machines.

Razgatlioglu, currently racing for BMW, initially expressed interest in switching to MotoGP next year but later reversed his decision, citing his commitment to honoring his BMW contract. His interest waned primarily due to the limited availability of factory bikes in MotoGP.

Last year, Razgatlioglu tested Yamaha's MotoGP bike, but this alone wasn't sufficient to persuade Yamaha to sign him immediately. Subsequently, Razgatlioglu parted ways with Yamaha's WSBK project and joined BMW, where he has once again become a strong contender for the championship. Despite this, he continues to be a compelling prospect for any MotoGP team willing to gamble on his proven ability to swiftly adapt to a new machine.

The introduction of a satellite team, Pramac, into the Japanese manufacturer's lineup for next season, has reshaped MotoGP's landscape. Hodgson argues that with Yamaha and Honda expanding to four factory bikes each next season, it's crucial not to overlook top talents like Razgatlioglu. He told the media:

“I find it really interesting.

“I was at the Superbikes Misano round, I manage Alex Lowes so I’m across what is happening.

“When you stand at the side of the track and watch Toprak, he’s even more impressive. He dominated that weekend.

“The other BMW riders, who are top riders, were nowhere near.

“We are all aware that Toprak is a special talent.

“If you are Yamaha with four full factory bikes next year, or Honda with four bikes, and you’ve got experienced riders but you need someone special? Why not approach Toprak?"

Highlighting Toprak as his preferred choice, Hodgson emphasized this point last week at Assen:

“If I’m Yamaha I’d be interested in getting Toprak because I’d want someone special, where the rider can make a difference.

“Toprak can make a difference. It sounds like he’s had an approach from Honda…”