This Friday, the renewal of Fabio Quartararo’s contract with Yamaha in MotoGP until 2026 was announced somewhat surprisingly. Since his debut in the premier class in 2019, the rider has been associated with the Iwata manufacturer, but there were many doubts about his continuity beyond 2024.
In recent years, there has been a significant drop in performance from the Japanese bike, which is currently one of the least competitive in the grid – alongside Honda. This year, both manufacturers have access to the highest level of concessions possible in the new system, but so far, the results have not improved.
However, it is a process that takes time – the outcome of the work that is now being carried out differently will take some time to be seen. And, based on the statements he has made in recent months, Quartararo is pleased with the change in approach and mentality at Yamaha.
In addition to having concessions, the manufacturer has somewhat embraced the European way of working. It has hired important European technicians, such as Max Bartolini (former Ducati) or Luca Marmorini (who is a consultant and has a background as an engineer at Ferrari in Formula 1).
Being just 24 years old, Quartararo can afford to give this time to Yamaha for now. He has left behind other alleged options that were speculated in recent weeks, such as Aprilia or Ducati – which currently have considerably more competitive bikes than the Yamaha YZR-M1.
This renewal is also a vote of confidence from El Diablo in the Japanese manufacturer – who now has the responsibility to justify it to keep Quartararo happy and, eventually, in the future have a chance to renew his contract beyond 2026. The die is cast. In the coming months, there should be indicators of the progress Yamaha may or may not make.