Álex Rins has confirmed that 2026 will mark his final season with the factory Yamaha MotoGP squad — news that, by his own admission, didn’t come easy.
The #42 revealed he only found out after making a routine call to team boss Massimo Meregalli.
“11 days ago, I called Massimo… just a normal call. We have a really good relationship. I asked him straight away if there were any updates, and at first he didn’t say anything. Then he told me, ‘don’t say anything now, but we have signed the second rider.’”
Rins didn’t hide his disappointment.
“I’m not in a really good moment because of this news. When I was at LCR I felt so good, then Yamaha came with a project I believed in. The inline-four has been a struggle, that’s reality. But when they explained the V4 project, I felt hopeful again.”
Despite the challenges, he remains committed.
“I will give 100%. I’m still the same Alex who won with Suzuki and Honda. There are 18 races left, and we’re going to give everything.”
Looking ahead, Rins admits his future is still unclear — but his focus is firm.
“I feel I need to stay in MotoGP. I still have a lot of potential in this championship.”
His comments have also fuelled speculation within the paddock. The mention of Yamaha already signing a “second rider” suggests a full lineup could already be locked in behind the scenes. Names like Jorge Martin and Ai Ogura are circulating — but for now, it’s all still unconfirmed.
So the question is… who do you think has taken his place? 👀🔥
One thing is certain: Rins isn’t done yet. 👊
#MotoGP #AlexRins #YamahaMotoGP #MotoGP2026 #RiderMarket Yamaha Blu Cru | Yamaha MotoGP | Yamaha Motor Southern Africa | Yamaha Motor | Henderson Racing Products
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