Monday, December 29, 2025

Fabio Quartararo Issues Ultimatum to Yamaha: “If It Doesn’t Work, I’ll Switch to a Competitive Team”

Fabio Quartararo, the French MotoGP rider, openly shared his frustration and determination regarding his future with Yamaha during a recent discussion on DAZN’s Pol Position show with Pol Espargaró. Despite earning three straight pole positions, Quartararo has yet to secure a race win this season, prompting him to make it clear that his continued partnership with Yamaha depends on improved competitiveness.

Quartararo emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating,

“I strongly believe in this project, but if it doesn’t work, I will leave for one that is already competitive,”

as reported by Motosan.

“This is very clear, I don’t have time anymore, I want to go somewhere where the bike is competitive from the start.”

Seasonal Performance and Technical Challenges

The 2024 campaign has been a rollercoaster for the former world champion. While he claimed pole positions at major races including Jerez, Le Mans, and Silverstone, converting these advantageous starts into victories has proven elusive. Quartararo noted a strategic shift in his approach after the Qatar race weekend, explaining that efforts have focused on maintaining stability rather than making constant bike adjustments.

“Really, since Qatar, we have tried not to make too many changes to the bike. In the first three races, we were looking for something we didn’t have,”

he said.

He also shed light on Yamaha’s methodical technical development. According to Quartararo, engine testing has been paced deliberately, with no engine trials during the Misano tests, followed by a test in Jerez and plans for another after Aragón. This measured approach reflects Yamaha’s cautious efforts to refine the bike throughout the season.

Outlook and Potential Shifts in Rider Commitment

Despite the setbacks, Quartararo remains hopeful about Yamaha’s long-term vision, especially with the changes anticipated under the 2027 regulation framework. Nevertheless, he issued a candid message about his prospects: if Yamaha’s project fails to produce a competitive machine soon, he is prepared to explore other options to reclaim his place at the front of the grid.