Jorge Martín confirmed his move to Yamaha on 9 Jul 2026, signing a two‑year contract that will see him ride the factory bike for the 2027 and 2028 MotoGP seasons. The Spanish rider’s agreement was announced alongside Japanese talent Ai Ogura, marking a significant roster shift for the Japanese marque.
What does the new contract entail?
The deal locks Martín into Yamaha’s premier class program for the next two campaigns, with the team citing his “consistent pace and race‑craft” as key factors. Financial terms were not disclosed, but the contract runs through the end of the 2028 season, giving the rider ample time to develop the bike and chase podiums. Yamaha also secured Ogura, a rising star from the Moto2 ranks, indicating a blend of experience and youth.
How will this affect Yamaha’s line‑up?
Yamaha’s current factory roster will undergo its first major overhaul since 2022. By pairing Martín with veteran Fabio Di Cello, the team hopes to balance fresh aggression with seasoned stability. The Spanish rider’s aggressive corner entry and late‑braking style complement Di Cello’s smoother rhythm, offering a tactical variety that could challenge Ducati’s dominance.
Why is Martín’s signing significant for his career?
After three seasons with Pramac Ducati, Martín posted a best finish of third at the 2025 British Grand Prix and accumulated 78 points overall. Moving to Yamaha gives him a factory bike capable of delivering straight‑line speed on the long‑run circuits where he previously struggled. The rider has expressed excitement about working with Yamaha’s technical team, especially chief engineer Toshihiko Kobayashi, whose recent chassis updates promise a more stable platform.
What are the expectations for the 2027‑2028 seasons?
Analysts predict Martín could break into the top‑five by mid‑season if Yamaha’s new engine maps deliver the expected torque curve. The team’s development roadmap includes a revised exhaust system slated for pre‑season testing in March 2027, which should improve acceleration out of slow corners—an area Martín has historically found challenging. Meanwhile, Ogura will likely continue his Moto2 campaign before stepping up, meaning Martín will carry the bulk of Yamaha’s factory hopes for the next two years.
How does this move reshape the MotoGP landscape?
Yamaha’s decision to lock in both a proven Grand Prix rider and a promising Moto2 talent signals a long‑term strategy aimed at rebuilding after a lean 2025 season. For Martín, the switch offers a chance to finally claim a race win, a milestone that has eluded him despite several podiums. The contract also puts pressure on Ducati and KTM, who will need to respond with their own rider upgrades to stay competitive.
What’s next for Martín and the team?
The new Yamaha‑Martín partnership will debut at the pre‑season test in Jerez on 15 Mar 2027. Fans can expect a flurry of technical briefings and a possible reveal of a fresh livery that blends the rider’s Spanish flag colors with Yamaha’s iconic blue. As the calendar rolls out, all eyes will be on how quickly Martín adapts to the new machinery and whether he can turn his podium finishes into full‑scale victories.