The rumors were already circulating, but confirmation has now arrived from Jerez: Alex Rins will leave Yamaha at the end of the 2026 season.
This marks the end of an important chapter in the MotoGP rider market, which is set to heat up in the coming weeks. Rins and Yamaha will part ways after a project that, unfortunately, never found the consistency expected.
The confirmation came from the Spanish rider himself on Thursday of the Spanish GP in Jerez. He also revealed how he learned about the decision: indirectly, after a conversation with Massimo Meregalli, who hinted that Yamaha had already chosen another rider for the future (possibly Japanese talent Ai Ogura).
Rins–Yamaha: More Downs Than Ups
Rins’ move to Yamaha came with high expectations, especially after his results with Suzuki and Honda. However, adapting to the Japanese bike proved difficult, particularly due to the inline-four engine, which limited his performance.
Hopes briefly returned with the V4 project, seen as a potential technical turning point. But despite some encouraging signs, the bike’s limitations remained clear, and the necessary feeling to consistently fight at the front never truly developed.
Rins Still Targeting MotoGP Future
Despite the disappointment, Rins made his intentions clear: he wants to remain in MotoGP, as he still considers himself competitive at the top level. There are no certainties yet for 2027, but his priority is to avoid a move to other categories such as WorldSBK.
At the same time, Yamaha is already shaping its future. If current rumors are confirmed, the 2027 lineup for the Iwata manufacturer could feature Jorge Martín alongside Ai Ogura.
Photo: MotoGP, Yamaha MotoGP
