TOPRAK RAZGATLIOGLU SAYS A PODIUM WAS POSSIBLE ON A DUCATI IN 2026 BUT HE CAN’T BE SURE

Rookie MotoGP campaigner Toprak Razgatlioglu has offered a blunt assessment of what his first season in the class might have looked like had he chosen a Ducati-backed route instead of signing with Team Pramac Yamaha. The three-time World Superbike champion has endured a difficult transition so far, with Yamaha’s 2026-spec prototype frequently cited as the main obstacle to his progress. After 11 rounds, Razgatlioglu is still searching for a breakthrough result, with his best finish to date coming at the Hungarian Grand Prix in June, where he placed 11th.

In an interview with Motosprint, Razgatlioglu was asked to respond to comments from his manager, Kenan Sofuoglu, who had previously expressed doubt about Razgatlioglu winning races on a Ducati during his rookie year. Razgatlioglu agreed with the general sentiment, saying: “I agree: if I had the best bike on the grid today, maybe I could dream of a podium finish, but I really don’t know for sure.” He added that, for now, the situation has to play out as it is, while looking ahead to the next phase of his MotoGP journey: “This year, things have to go as they are, and in 2027 I hope I can make a difference.”

When pressed on what he meant by the uncertainty, Razgatlioglu pointed to the importance of having the right overall package rather than relying on rider talent alone. “When this season started, I had a clear vision of the situation, but in testing, things are less clear. I’m learning one thing in particular,” he said. He then explained that lesson directly: “If you have a good package, you can always be fast; otherwise you’re at the bottom: it’s a trend a bit like Formula 1.”

Despite the slow start, Razgatlioglu said he remains optimistic and framed his first year as part of a longer development process. “I stay optimistic, and I’m learning, also because the first year is about learning. I hope we’ll grow together next year because I believe in Yamaha and Team Pramac. And that’s exactly why I came to MotoGP.”

Razgatlioglu’s comments also tie into broader expectations for his future in the premier class. He has been tipped to “cause trouble” next year as MotoGP’s new regulations arrive, and the introduction of Pirelli tyres to the grid is expected to support his adaptation further, given his history of success with Pirelli in World Superbike.

The Turkish rider’s view on needing a competitive package echoes a similar message recently shared by KTM’s Pedro Acosta. Acosta has spoken about the time it has taken him to secure his first MotoGP win, and the report notes he currently holds the record for the most top-three finishes without a victory. Like Razgatlioglu, Acosta is hoping that moving to Ducati next year will help him remove that mark from his record.