Toprak Razgatlioglu, two-time WSBK champion (2021, 2024), is negotiating his move to MotoGP for 2026 with Honda and Yamaha. His manager, Kenan Sofuoglu, is eyeing a factory contract, jeopardizing the positions of Johann Zarco (LCR Honda) or Luca Marini (Repsol Honda). The Frenchman is responding with elegance.
The passage of Toprak Razgatlioglu in MotoGP is no longer a rumor: it is now a clear objective. The Turkish rider, current spearhead of BMW in Superbike, is considering joining an official MotoGP structure in 2026. At almost 30 years old, his entourage – led by his manager Kenan Sofuoglu – wants to ensure he has a handlebar that matches his record, with two options in view: Honda et Yamaha .
The most likely place for Toprak? Luca Marini in Castrol Honda, whose contract expires at the end of 2025. Joan mir being tied until the end of 2026, the arrival of the Turk would necessarily involve a replacement in the factory team, which revives speculation around the future of the half-brother of Valentino Rossi.
Other names mentioned: Johann zarco, currently at Honda LCR, best RC213V driver on track since the start of the season. But at 35 years old in July, the French could see Razgatlioglu to cut him off.
Johann Zarco: “ if he comes, it will be exciting »
Asked by speedweek, zarco did not dodge the question: " I'm very impressed by what he's doing. What he's doing in Superbike is extraordinary. He has a unique, almost acrobatic style. If he makes it, it will be exciting to see if we learn from him or he from us. »
And to add, with a wry smile: " for my part, I would prefer that he goes to Yamaha… but I focus on my current situation »
According to Kenan Sofuoglu, the announcement could fall " in the next two to four weeks ». Yamaha , which plans to offer a M1 2026 via Pramac, remains in the running, even if the “satellite team” label could tip the balance towards Honda, where Toprak would aim for direct integration into the factory team.
On his situation, the two-time Turkish WSBK world champion commented: " if I have the opportunity to race in MotoGP, he declared to speedweek, I want to try. I am very happy in the Superbike paddock and I enjoy it, but I've been here for quite a long timeIf it's possible to go to MotoGP, why not? Otherwise, I'll be happy to stay there. I only have two years left to change2027 is my last chance, after which I'll be over 30. If I stay in Superbike, I'd like to continue with BMW. Without serious injuries, I still have ten years left in this sport. ».
If the arrival of the Turkish phenomenon is confirmed, the transfer market 2026 could be totally upset, and the tension rise in the box Honda.
