Yamaha is delighted to officially announce the transition of its YZR-M1 from the iconic inline-four engine to the V4 configuration for the 2026 MotoGP season.
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. confirms that the YZR-M1 machines will be powered by the V4 engine starting from the 2026 MotoGP season. This decision aligns with Yamaha’s earlier stated intentions to transition, underlining the continuity and transparency of Yamaha’s engine development strategy.
The inline-four has been a cornerstone of Yamaha’s racing identity for decades, powering legendary riders such as Valentino Rossi, Jorge Lorenzo, and Fabio Quartararo. Its unique combination of agility and smooth power delivery led to countless successes: including today’s race in Valencia, the inline-four has competed in 429 Grands Prix, won 125 races, stood on 350+ podiums, and helped Yamaha claim 8 Riders Titles, 7 Team Titles, 5 Manufacturer Titles and 5 MotoGP Triple Crowns.
However, as MotoGP evolves, Yamaha embraces the challenge of adapting to new technical demands while preserving its DNA. The move to the V4 marks a significant milestone in Yamaha’s pursuit of performance and innovation. The new configuration is expected to deliver improved acceleration, better handling under braking, and greater adaptability to the most recent tyres and aerodynamics requirements. The quick development process over the course of the 2025 season reflects Yamaha’s commitment to be at the forefront of MotoGP technology while honouring its heritage.
Today’s Grand Prix of the Valencian Community marks the final race and the closing chapter for Yamaha’s iconic inline-four engine in MotoGP. Stepping into a new era, all 2026 Yamaha MotoGP riders will ride with the V4 engine during Tuesday’s Valencia Test, signalling the start of an exciting new beginning for Yamaha and its fans worldwide.
TAKAHIRO SUMI
General Manager, Motor Sports Development Division
“The inline-four has been at the heart of Yamaha’s philosophy for decades. It delivered unforgettable victories and shaped our reputation for precision and control. We are proud of what this engine has achieved and of the riders who made history with it, as they all together have shaped our racing heritage.
“However, MotoGP is constantly evolving, and we must evolve with it. The V4 represents a new chapter for Yamaha, one that combines our ‘Spirit of Challenge’ with our racing DNA and the technical solutions required to fight at the top.
“Our goal remains the same: to give our riders the best possible motorcycle to win and to bring fans all around the world the feeling of ‘Kando*’.”
* Kando is a Japanese word to express the deep satisfaction and excitement you get when encountering something of exceptional value, quality, and performance.
MASSIMO BARTOLINI
Technical Director, Yamaha Factory Racing
“The decision to adopt a V4 engine was not taken lightly. As you can imagine, the development process was extensive. We analysed every aspect of performance, from acceleration to cornering behaviour, and concluded that this configuration offers the differences we expected, so we will have the potential to translate these into advantages.
“The 2025 wild cards confirmed our expectations: the V4, though still at the start of its development journey, delivers what we need to be able to take further steps and compete at the highest level again.
“The switch from the inline-four to the V4 is a major step forward for Yamaha, and we are excited to continue refining the package ahead of 2026 and throughout the season to unlock its full potential.
“The shift to a V4 configuration is equally strategic, as it allows us to position ourselves for the 2027 technical regulations, when this engine layout will offer an advantage in terms of bike layout and aerodynamic development.”
Watch, like and subscribe to our Youtube channel
[content-egg module=AmazonNoApi template=grid]
©Words/Images above are from an official press release posted courtesy of the team
For more racing news head to our dedicated page: Racing News Home Page
[content-egg module=Amazon template=grid]
* Disclosure: This page may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission (at no cost to you) if you click on the link and make a purchase. Any money made goes straight back into the website and magazine. Your support is appreciated!
