Yamaha is reportedly set to miss out on securing a satellite team for the next MotoGP season. After signing star rider Fabio Quartararo to a lucrative new contract, the Japanese manufacturer has made adding two extra bikes for 2025 a top priority.
Unexpectedly, Yamaha faced rejection from VR46, despite the mutual link with Valentino Rossi. Subsequently, they turned their attention to Pramac, making an attractive offer and eagerly awaiting a response.
However, according to Motorsport, “something happened” during the Le Mans weekend, increasing Pramac’s likelihood of staying with Ducati from 50-50 to 95%.
A Yamaha staff member commented, “Our first alternative was always VR46, but we couldn’t convince them. So Plan B is Pramac, and we hope they will accept the offer we have made them.” Unfortunately, Yamaha admitted, “There is no Plan C. We are hopeful that Pramac will accept our offer, which is very interesting. Otherwise, we don’t have an alternative in mind.”
This situation positions Yamaha as the “big loser” in this ongoing saga, potentially leaving them with only two bikes in the 2025 MotoGP lineup. Pramac has until the end of July to confirm to Ducati whether they will activate a clause to remain with the manufacturer for two more years. If Pramac decides to stay, they are expected to retain access to factory-spec bikes.
Despite this, Pramac’s Paolo Campinoti entertained Yamaha’s offer due to internal competition within Ducati’s satellite teams. Campinoti was uncertain about Pramac’s status within Ducati post-2026 when new MotoGP regulations take effect, leading him to “seriously consider” Yamaha’s proposal.
However, it now seems increasingly unlikely that Pramac will switch to Yamaha. Ducati is carefully managing this issue alongside their major rider decisions, with Enea Bastianini. Jorge Martin, and Marc Marquez all vying for the 2025 factory bike. Should Pramac stay with Ducati, it could serve as a Plan B for either Bastianini or Marquez. If not, rider options would shift dramatically.
Meanwhile, Yamaha faces a significant setback in their recovery plans. The addition of a satellite team was reportedly “one of the arguments” that convinced Quartararo to sign a new deal. Without a satellite team, Yamaha’s strategy and future prospects in MotoGP could face severe impacts.
Leave a Reply