Quartararo Signals Yamaha's Near Certainty of Embracing V4 Engine in 2026 MotoGP Season

Yamaha’s factory rider, Fabio Quartararo, anticipates campaigning on the Japanese manufacturer’s new V4 engine throughout the 2026 MotoGP season, despite the prototype’s underwhelming performance in recent outings.

While Quartararo and his fellow Yamaha riders continue to compete on the current inline-four configuration, the factory has been simultaneously developing the V4 engine. Test rider Augusto Fernandez debuted the V4 in a wildcard appearance at Misano in September and subsequently raced it again at Sepang last month.

The V4’s development trajectory appeared to stall between the two events, with Fernandez expressing reservations about its potential following the Malaysian Grand Prix.

Yamaha has not formally committed to the V4 for the 2026 season, the only year it would be race-legal before the significant regulation changes slated for 2027. However, the manufacturer has invested heavily in the project. As the last MotoGP manufacturer to explore the V4 route, utilizing the 2026 season would provide a valuable learning opportunity for the 2027 V4 challenger.

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Speaking ahead of the Portuguese Grand Prix, Quartararo indicated that the decision regarding Yamaha’s 2026 engine configuration is virtually settled.

When asked if he was entirely certain about riding the V4 next season, the 2021 world champion stated, "For me, what I understand, yes. For me, it’s 99% ‘yes’."

Quartararo also dismissed the possibility of Yamaha splitting its efforts between the two engine layouts across the factory and satellite teams next season.

"No," he replied. "I mean, the 99% is because maybe the V4 has less performance than the four inline. And maybe the riders ask for the four inline. But this is Yamaha’s decision. But what I understand is we race with the V4."

Despite the apparent challenges surrounding the V4 project, the Frenchman refrained from reiterating his past criticisms of Yamaha. Quartararo’s crucial test aboard the new challenger is scheduled to take place immediately after the Valencia finale, a date considered pivotal for the future of his relationship with the factory.

Asked if he had spoken with Fernandez or reviewed the Spaniard’s data, Quartararo offered a subtle nudge to Yamaha.

"Yes, I’ve talked to Augusto. Actually, at Sepang, I gave him one of my swing arms for him to test. Because they had some vibrations and they needed to see a bit how he was going with the swing arm. It was a bit better, but of course, as the results show, he’s still far. I think that more than [me looking at] his data, it’s the engineers that have to understand exactly what they need to do to close the gap."

Yamaha’s Engine Dilemma: V4 vs. Inline-Four

Yamaha’s potential switch to a V4 engine represents a significant departure from its traditional inline-four configuration, which has been a hallmark of the manufacturer’s MotoGP program for years. The decision to explore the V4 route reflects a growing recognition that the inline-four may be reaching its performance ceiling in the modern MotoGP landscape.

The V4 engine configuration offers several potential advantages over the inline-four, including a more compact design, improved mass centralization, and greater flexibility in terms of power delivery. However, the V4 also presents significant engineering challenges, particularly in terms of managing heat and vibration.

Yamaha’s V4 project has been underway for several years, with the factory investing considerable resources in its development. However, the initial results have been mixed, with test rider Augusto Fernandez struggling to extract competitive performance from the prototype.

Fernandez’s struggles have raised concerns about the V4’s potential, and some observers have questioned whether Yamaha is making the right decision by switching away from its proven inline-four configuration.

Quartararo’s Role in Yamaha’s Engine Decision

Fabio Quartararo’s opinion on Yamaha’s engine decision carries significant weight, as he is the factory’s lead rider and a former world champion. Quartararo has been vocal in his criticism of Yamaha’s current inline-four engine, arguing that it lacks the power and acceleration necessary to compete with the V4-powered machines of Ducati and KTM.

Quartararo’s willingness to embrace the V4 engine, despite its current shortcomings, suggests that he believes it represents the best path forward for Yamaha. However, Quartararo has also made it clear that he expects Yamaha to address the V4’s performance issues before the 2026 season.

The 2027 Regulation Changes and Their Impact

The 2027 MotoGP regulation changes will have a significant impact on engine development, with the maximum engine displacement being reduced from 1,000cc to 850cc. The changes also include restrictions on aerodynamic devices and a ban on ride-height devices.

These changes are intended to reduce speeds, improve safety, and promote closer racing. They will also force manufacturers to rethink their engine designs, as the current 1,000cc engines may not be optimal for the new regulations.

Yamaha’s decision to switch to a V4 engine in 2026 could be seen as a preparation for the 2027 regulation changes. The V4 configuration may be better suited to the new regulations than the inline-four, as it offers greater flexibility in terms of engine design and power delivery.

Yamaha’s Historical Performance and Current Standing

Yamaha has a rich history in MotoGP, with seven riders’ world championships and nine manufacturers’ world championships. However, the factory has struggled in recent years, with its last riders’ championship coming in 2021 with Fabio Quartararo and its last manufacturers’ championship in 2015.

In 2023, Yamaha finished fourth in the manufacturers’ standings, with Quartararo finishing tenth in the riders’ standings and his teammate Franco Morbidelli finishing twelfth. These results reflect the challenges that Yamaha has faced in recent years, particularly in terms of engine performance and overall competitiveness.

Yamaha’s struggles have been attributed to a variety of factors, including a lack of investment in engine development, a conservative approach to innovation, and the departure of key personnel. The factory has been working to address these issues, with the V4 engine project representing a significant step in the right direction.

The Competitive Landscape of MotoGP

The MotoGP grid is currently dominated by Ducati, which has won the riders’ championship in the last two seasons and the manufacturers’ championship in the last three seasons. Ducati’s success has been attributed to its powerful V4 engine, its sophisticated electronics, and its aggressive aerodynamic development.

KTM has also emerged as a major force in MotoGP, with the Austrian manufacturer winning several races in recent years. KTM’s success has been attributed to its strong rider lineup, its innovative chassis design, and its willingness to take risks.

Other manufacturers, such as Aprilia and Honda, are also working to close the gap to Ducati and KTM. Aprilia has made significant progress in recent years, with its riders consistently challenging for podium finishes. Honda, on the other hand, has struggled to adapt to the changing landscape of MotoGP, with its riders facing numerous challenges in terms of competitiveness and reliability.

The Road Ahead for Yamaha

Yamaha faces a challenging road ahead as it prepares for the 2026 season and the 2027 regulation changes. The factory must address the performance issues of its V4 engine, while also developing a chassis and electronics package that can compete with the best in the world.

Yamaha’s success will depend on its ability to attract and retain top talent, invest in research and development, and foster a culture of innovation. The factory must also be willing to take risks and challenge the status quo, as the competitive landscape of MotoGP is constantly evolving.

Fabio Quartararo’s commitment to Yamaha is a positive sign, but the factory must provide him with the tools he needs to succeed. If Yamaha can deliver on its promises, it has the potential to return to the top of MotoGP and challenge for championships in the years to come.