Yamaha’s relationship with Toprak Razgatlioglu extends far beyond a rider-manufacturer partnership.
As the three-time Superbike World Champion continues the next chapter of his career in MotoGP with Prima Pramac Yamaha, the Japanese manufacturer recently reflected on the memories the two sides created together during one of the most successful periods in World Superbike history.
Razgatlioglu joined Yamaha’s factory WorldSBK program in 2020 and quickly transformed the team’s fortunes. In 2021, the Turkish rider captured the World Superbike championship, ending Jonathan Rea’s six-year reign atop the series and delivering Yamaha its first riders’ title since 2009.
His aggressive riding style, spectacular late braking and trademark stoppie celebrations made him one of motorcycle racing’s most recognizable stars.
Although Razgatlioglu left Yamaha following the 2023 season to join BMW, where he added two more World Superbike championships in 2024 and 2025, the connection between rider and manufacturer remained strong.
That bond came full circle when Yamaha announced Razgatlioglu’s return to the company for the 2026 MotoGP season, placing him with Prima Pramac Yamaha as he pursues success in motorcycle racing’s premier class. The move also made him the first Turkish rider to compete full-time in MotoGP.
Yamaha acknowledged the lasting impact Razgatlioglu had on its WorldSBK program, pointing to the championship success and memorable moments the two sides shared together. The manufacturer described those years as unforgettable, recognizing the rider’s role in restoring Yamaha to the top of the Superbike world.
While his transition to MotoGP has presented a steep learning curve, Razgatlioglu continues adapting to the Yamaha YZR-M1 and the demands of prototype racing after spending years mastering production-based Superbikes.
Regardless of what the future holds in MotoGP, Razgatlioglu’s legacy with Yamaha is already secure. Together, they ended one dynasty, captured a world championship and created some of the defining moments of the modern World Superbike era.
Now, both sides hope their reunion can produce another memorable chapter on motorcycle racing’s biggest stage.