French MotoGP rider Fabio Quartararo, who made his debut in 2019 with Yamaha’s satellite team, experienced a remarkable rise in the sport. His impressive rookie season garnered seven podiums, leading to a promotion to Yamaha’s factory squad in 2021, where he clinched the world championship after three race wins in 2020.
However, his subsequent year was marked by a close battle for the championship, which he narrowly lost to Francesco Bagnaia due to Yamaha’s struggles with form.
Throughout 2023, Quartararo expressed concerns about Yamaha’s approach to bike development as the team’s performance faltered. Despite speculation about his potential departure at the end of his contract in 2024, Yamaha announced a new two-year deal with Quartararo, securing his services until 2026.
Quartararo had emphasized the need for changes within Yamaha, and while the team underwent personnel changes, the competitiveness of the M1 remained a concern for him.
Following Yamaha’s disappointing results in the 2024 season opener in Qatar, Quartararo expressed dissatisfaction with the M1’s performance compared to its rivals.
Despite engaging in discussions with other manufacturers, Quartararo ultimately decided to stay with Yamaha due to the team’s efforts to address his concerns and their shared history of success. He expressed confidence in Yamaha’s new approach and determination to return to the front of the grid.
Quartararo’s contract extension adds significance to the 2025 rider market, with several key riders like Bagnaia, Binder, and Zarco also securing deals until 2026.
Yamaha’s struggles in the previous season granted them extensive concession benefits for 2024, including unrestricted testing and free engine development, aimed at improving their performance. Additionally, Ducati signed Moto2 standout Fermin Aldeguer to a two-year contract, although his racing team remains uncertain at this stage.