Official: Yamaha parts ways with ex-world champion

Yamaha has officially confirmed the end of its collaboration with its two factory riders, Fabio Quartararo and Álex Rins, at the conclusion of the 2026 MotoGP season.

The two riders will no longer compete for the factory team of Japanese motorcycle manufacturer Yamaha in 2029.

"We are extremely grateful to Fabio and Alex for their commitment, professionalism, and contribution to the Yamaha MotoGP project. Together, we will continue to give our all to be successful until the end of the 2026 season," Yamaha stated in a press release.

Quartararo Won the World Title in 2021

The time spent with Fabio Quartararo was particularly formative. The Frenchman has continuously ridden for Yamaha since his MotoGP debut in 2019, becoming the Japanese manufacturer's flagship rider.

During this period, he celebrated eleven Grand Prix victories and stood on the podium 32 times. The highlight followed in 2021 with the capture of the world championship title in the premier class. A year later, Quartararo secured the runner-up title behind Francesco Bagnaia.

Álex Rins joined the Yamaha factory team for the 2024 season. However, the Spaniard was unable to replicate the successes he had previously celebrated, particularly with Suzuki. Furthermore, his time at Yamaha was repeatedly marked by injuries that regularly set him back.