Fabio Quartararo is leaving Yamaha after eight years with the team. He won the world championship title in 2021.
What happened?
Yamaha announced the exit of Fabio Quartararo and his teammate Alex Rins.
Quartararo won 11 grands prix and took 32 podiums during his time with Yamaha.
He also secured 21 pole positions and a world championship title in 2021.
Why it matters for Fabio Quartararo
Fabio Quartararo's departure from Yamaha marks the end of an era for the team.
Yamaha Racing managing director Paolo Pavesio praised Quartararo's efforts and dedication to the team.
Pavesio said Quartararo will always remain one of the true legends of Yamaha MotoGP.
What comes next?
Fabio Quartararo is expected to join Honda in 2027.
Factory Aprilia star Jorge Martin and Trackhouse rider Ai Ogura are set to join Yamaha in 2027.
Quartararo took to social media to reflect on his career and thank Yamaha for the opportunity to compete at the highest level.
He expressed his gratitude for the unforgettable moments they shared, including a world championship title and 11 victories.
Yamaha has struggled to replicate its 2021 success and has not won a grand prix since 2022 at the Sachsenring.
The team remains focused on working together to achieve the best possible results until the end of the season.
Fabio Quartararo's journey with Yamaha spans eight years, with both great successes and difficult moments.
He grew as a rider and a person during his time with the team.
Quartararo feels it is the right moment to take on a new challenge and start fresh.
He is pushing himself toward new horizons and is forever grateful to Yamaha.
The announcement from Yamaha was long anticipated, with Quartararo pinned to make a move to Honda.
Rins admitted in April that he would not be returning to the team.
Yamaha is now looking to the future, with new riders set to join the team in 2027.