In the previous year, Fabio Quartararo, widely considered the best MotoGP rider from 2020 to 2022, was noticeably absent from the fierce competition at the front of the pack. However, this year, the difficulties of the Yamaha M1 bike have become the norm, overshadowing Quartararo’s once strong qualifying performances. Despite his frustration with the state of Yamaha’s MotoGP machine, Quartararo chose to stay with the team.
This decision did not come out of nowhere. As discussions for MotoGP 2025 approached, Quartararo’s tone towards Yamaha seemed to soften, and his alternatives became less viable. Although he still expresses his concerns about the current performance of the M1, he has shifted his focus to the positive aspects that Yamaha has shown him, such as the top speed upgrade and the impact of the new team member, Max Bartolini.
While Quartararo’s decision may be seen as a vote of confidence, other options were not as appealing. The official Ducati team is highly sought after, and KTM has solidified its rider lineup. Aprilia has shown interest, but with possible financial compensations. Quartararo’s situation is different from Marc Marquez’s, who made a bold move to Gresini to reignite his passion for MotoGP and counter the effects of time. Quartararo, being younger and less financially secure, believes his winning moment will come again.
Aprilia, with its impressive RS-GP bike, could offer Quartararo the chance to compete at the front, but would not guarantee a title. Considering pragmatic factors, sticking with Yamaha makes sense. It offers more financial benefits, a team with a history of championships, a strong main sponsor, and continuous investments in the MotoGP program. Additionally, Yamaha benefits from the new concession rules aimed at accelerating its return to the top. Although it may not be the most exciting choice, it is a difficult decision to criticize.
