RAZGATLIOGLU’S PHILLIP ISLAND START IN DOUBT AFTER SHOULDER INJURY

Toprak Razgatlioglu turned 30 on Friday with his first MotoGP season still proving a difficult transition. The Pramac Yamaha rookie, born in Alanya on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, was introduced to motorcycles by his father, a stunt performer who died in a crash in 2017. Known as “El Turco,” he became one of World Superbike’s most daring duelists, won three titles and helped BMW claim two championships. His spectacular riding and stunts also made him famous beyond racing.

But the Yamaha M1 has so far given the three-time Superbike champion little chance to show that form in MotoGP. A series of crashes has taken a toll, and his latest setback came at Indonesia’s Mandalika circuit. After a heavy fall in second practice, Razgatlioglu started the race but retired after eight laps, unable to continue because his previously dislocated right shoulder lacked the strength required.

His fitness for the next round at Phillip Island remains uncertain, as does whether he will need surgery. If he cannot race in Australia, Yamaha test rider Augusto Fernandez is expected to take his place.

Razgatlioglu sits 21st in the standings with 18 points, leaving little to gain by risking a premature return. The priority, according to the report, is a full recovery with 2027 in mind.