Alex Rins has shared powerful insights into his challenging transition with the Yamaha MotoGP team, describing how the move tested his resolve throughout his MotoGP journey. Joining Yamaha in 2024 after a difficult stint with LCR Honda, Rins faced immense psychological and competitive obstacles as he aimed to recapture his winning form.
Adjusting to Yamaha After Success and Setbacks
After suffering a severe leg injury during the Italian Grand Prix with LCR Honda, Rins began a new chapter with the factory Yamaha team, eager to prove himself once again as a MotoGP race winner. Anticipation was high due to Rins’ prior achievements with Suzuki’s inline-four engine, where he consistently performed at an elite level from 2017 to 2022. However, the adjustment proved tougher than expected. Rins was unable to deliver the immediate results many had hoped for, with his best finish on the Yamaha coming at the 2025 Indonesian Grand Prix, where he secured seventh place.
Season of Highs and Lows: Performance Challenges
The 2025 season saw Alex Rins striving for improvement and searching for consistency. Moments of hope appeared, notably during qualifying at Mandalika, where he achieved a strong fourth-place position—hinting at the potential for podium success. Over the course of the campaign, however, Rins struggled to match the performance of his teammate Fabio Quartararo, who collected numerous podiums and finished the season with 201 points. In contrast, Rins ended up 19th in the standings, reflecting the tough nature of his transition and the competition within the arena.
The Role of Team Support in Facing Difficulties
Despite these obstacles, Rins remained steadfast in his trust and respect for his crew, highlighting how their professionalism and support helped him through the most trying periods.
“It was a bit tough, mentally,”
he admitted during a reflective conversation in Valencia, addressing the demands of his Yamaha MotoGP journey.
“But, having a good group of people around you and good professionals, it’s easier. In the end, you need to be at 100%, so they try to, in the tougher moments, to not think like this. I believe in my team, and I know that they are really professional and they are the best ones.”
Looking Ahead: Stability and New Opportunities for Yamaha
As the 2026 MotoGP season approaches, Yamaha has confirmed continuity by renewing contracts with Rins’ crew, aiming to build stability after a difficult period. This period of consistency arrives at a pivotal juncture for the team, as Yamaha prepares to introduce an all-new V4 engine design—marking a significant shift in their engineering approach within the championship.
Both Rins and Quartararo are set to spearhead Yamaha’s campaign with an official team launch scheduled in Jakarta on January 21. With a refreshed strategy and strengthened resolve, Rins will look to turn the page and reclaim his position among the elite in MotoGP competition. The road ahead may be unpredictable, but the Yamaha factory team and its professionals remain determined as their journey continues.
