At the Buriram pre-season testing, MotoGP rookie Toprak Razgatlioglu received important guidance from former world champion Fabio Quartararo as he navigates a challenging start in MotoGP. Razgatlioglu is adjusting to new Yamaha machinery and Michelin tyres after years competing in WorldSBK, facing added pressure in his transition.
Quartararo himself has encountered frustration with the Yamaha V4’s performance this season, but Razgatlioglu’s struggles appear more pronounced. On the final day of testing, the reigning World Superbike champion ranked 21st and last among full-time riders, over two seconds off the pace set by Aprilia’s Marco Bezzecchi. Meanwhile, Razgatlioglu’s teammate Jack Miller demonstrated better speed, finishing 1.1 seconds ahead, with Quartararo close behind Miller’s time.
Quartararo’s Support: Acknowledging the Mental Challenge
During testing, Quartararo was observed offering Razgatlioglu encouragement in the garage. He later described the conversation, highlighting the mental challenge the rookie faces:
“Mentally, for him it’s difficult, because he was always in the top three in Superbike, and I saw him really desperate, I would say.
“He arrived in the most difficult moment of Yamaha, [and] in his first year he [also] changes manufacturer of tyres.
“But [I was] just telling him that it’s normal to be in this position when we just arrived, and we are all there.
He just needs to take time to feel faster and more comfortable on the bike.
Quartararo added, “I wish I had that [advice] when I was struggling in my first [MotoGP] test in Malaysia.
I want the best for him, and I think small words can maybe help, and I think it’s positive for him.
Razgatlioglu Responds: Patience and Adaptation Are Key
Razgatlioglu has been receiving not only Quartararo’s advice but also support from teammate Jack Miller. The rookie shared insights into their discussion and his own mindset in facing a difficult adjustment period:
We were talking about this year. I’m still learning. He said don’t rush. And also Yamaha is still improving. So try to adapt to the tyres. He said for [him] also it’s very difficult [with] the new bike,
Razgatlioglu explained.
“He just said, ‘stay calm. You don’t need to rush’. I’m always thinking corner by corner. Trying to do my best. But the lap time is not coming. Always I’m getting sad.
But when I moved to MotoGP, I understand the tyres and bikes are completely different. I need to adapt to this. But still, I’m not really adapting. Especially with the front tyre.
While Razgatlioglu continues to struggle with finding confidence on corner entry, particularly with the front tyre, he noted improvements in controlling wheelspin exiting corners. After lunch during testing, he recorded stronger lap times on worn tyres, though still trailing top riders like Marc and Pecco.
“With the medium tyre, I did my best lap today. But still I’m learning, I need time.
Sometimes my motivation is going down. But this is normal. I need to just focus more. And try to adapt to the tyres.
Settling In Despite the Struggles
Though Razgatlioglu has much progress ahead to become fully comfortable on the MotoGP bike, he expressed satisfaction with his environment and team dynamics. He praised the welcoming atmosphere and the collaboration with his crew and teammate Jack Miller:
“I’m very happy working with my team. Because everyone is very warm. We are working together. Also my team mate Jack is a really good guy. I’m very happy working with him and he’s also helping me every day, every session.
I like the MotoGP paddock but if I’m a quick rider, I think I’ll start to enjoy it more. But this is normal.
Razgatlioglu is set to make his official MotoGP race debut this weekend at the same Buriram circuit where he has been testing. This event will provide a real measure of his ongoing adaptation to the premier class.
The Road Ahead: Challenges and Potential Growth
The advice from Fabio Quartararo underscores the difficulties riders face when stepping up to MotoGP, especially under the current pressures of machine and tyre changes. Razgatlioglu’s experience highlights the mental and technical hurdles inherent in this transition, from adjusting to new tyre characteristics to building race confidence.
As Yamaha continues to develop its bike and riders gain more track time, Razgatlioglu’s patience and steady improvement will be essential. The support from experienced teammates like Jack Miller and Quartararo himself offers valuable guidance during this formative period.
With his race debut imminent, the coming weeks will be crucial not only for Razgatlioglu’s growth but also for his ability to secure consistent performances that help him establish a foothold in MotoGP. His progress will be closely watched by fans and teams alike as the season unfolds.
