MOTOGP FANS CRITICIZE RED BULL AFTER TOPRAK RAZGATLIOGLU’S WATER STUNT

MotoGP fans have reacted with anger after Red Bull allowed Toprak Razgatlioglu to take part in a high-risk stunt that involved attempting to “fly” a motorcycle over water. The Pramac-Yamaha rider, who has a reputation for showy attempts on two wheels, was filmed launching a modified Yamaha R6 equipped with glider-style wings from a ramp toward a body of water. According to reports, Razgatlioglu did not get far—he only managed to rise a couple of feet before plunging into the water while still wearing full motorcycle racing leathers and his race helmet.

Organisers quickly pulled him to safety after he breached the water. Even so, the incident sparked a wave of criticism online, with many viewers focusing on the danger of wearing full protective gear in a scenario where a fall into water was always possible. Several fans compared the moment to a well-known example from MotoGP history: Jorge Lorenzo’s 2010 Spanish Grand Prix celebrations, when he jumped into a lake at Circuito de Jerez after winning and required rescue because his suit filled with water.

One Reddit user said they were “worried for him,” asking whether anyone had “see[n] when Lorenzo jumped in the pond with full leathers.” Another comment added that the Lorenzo incident was the first thing that came to mind, specifically because “leathers not being very floaty.” Others echoed the same concern, with one fan arguing they “would definitely not wear a leather suit and a race helmet” if they expected to fall in water, warning that he “could have drowned.” Another wrote, “Dude almost drowned because of a publicity stunt,” while a different supporter said they “love Toprak and his personality” and appreciated his willingness to try new things, but stressed that he “could have seriously got injured here!”

The backlash also extended beyond the stunt itself to the decision-making behind it. Fans questioned why Razgatlioglu was permitted to participate, pointing to Red Bull’s broader culture of dramatic publicity stunts across other sports. One comment referenced Formula 1, saying Red Bull “won’t let Max ride a MotoGP [bike]” but still allowed Toprak to attempt something like this.

Razgatlioglu’s involvement is not entirely surprising given his history of stunt-minded moments, including a recent 2026 season launch appearance where he showcased his skills in a show setting. That event helped cement his popularity with supporters, but the water-based attempt has left many feeling that the entertainment value came at an unacceptable level of risk.