Key Takeaways (TL;DR):
- Confidence in 850cc Project: Pramac Yamaha driver Toprak Razgatlıoğlu voiced trust in Iwata’s new 850cc V4 prototype development, describing initial engine evaluations as positive despite early-stage limitations.
- Brno Test Baseline: During mid-season testing at Brno, Yamaha fitted its new 850cc V4 engine into the 2026 chassis while evaluating upcoming 2027 Pirelli tire compounds.
- Further Development Ahead: Razgatlıoğlu and test rider Augusto Fernández will continue refining the 850cc package during Yamaha’s next official test day at the Red Bull Ring in September.
The Turkish rider, currently competing in his debut MotoGP campaign with Pramac Yamaha following his transition from WorldSBK, took part in Yamaha’s initial 850cc track evaluation at Brno alongside test rider Augusto Fernández. The test involved mounting Yamaha’s new four-stroke 850cc V4 engine into the current 2026 chassis while testing prototype Pirelli control tires ahead of the Italian supplier’s 2027 entry.
“For me, it was a positive test because we were simply testing the engine, nothing more,” Razgatlıoğlu told Crash.net during the British GP weekend. “I think I did a good job. Of course, rival manufacturers are continuing to progress, but Yamaha isn’t standing still either—they are evolving.”
While acknowledging that Yamaha’s package was not at full operational readiness during the June outing, Razgatlıoğlu highlighted the baseline data gathered as a essential foundation for 2027.
“When we ran the test, we weren’t 100% prepared,” Razgatlıoğlu noted. “The objective was purely to evaluate the engine. We did a very good job, which is why I view it as a positive step.
“Next year, step by step, if we make key improvements, I believe we will begin fighting for special results. That is why I say it was positive—I believe in this project.”
Yamaha’s next scheduled track session with the 850cc prototype will take place in September at the Red Bull Ring following the Austrian Grand Prix.
The 2026 MotoGP season resumes August 28–30 with the Aragon Grand Prix at MotorLand Aragón, marking Round 13 of the championship. Full coverage of all sessions continues on GRANDE PRÊMIO.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What engine configuration is Yamaha developing for the 2027 MotoGP regulations?
Yamaha is developing a four-stroke 850cc V4 engine, representing its first V4 architecture in the modern four-stroke MotoGP era.
Which riders participated in Yamaha’s initial 850cc test at Brno?
Pramac Yamaha’s Toprak Razgatlıoğlu and Yamaha test rider Augusto Fernández conducted the test at Brno.
When is the next 850cc test scheduled for Yamaha?
Yamaha’s next official 850cc development test is scheduled for September 2026 at the Red Bull Ring, immediately following the Austrian Grand Prix.
