Miguel Oliveira Joins Pramac as Yamaha Starts New MotoGP Era
Following a rather unsuccessful stint in the Aprilia satellite team, Miguel Oliveira is set to join Pramac Racing Yamaha in…
Fabio Quartararo concluded a tough 2024 MotoGP campaign on a high note during Yamaha’s official test in Barcelona. The Frenchman finished second-fastest in MotoGP’s post-season test in Barcelona, clocking a personal best of 1:38.803, being only beaten by Gresini Ducati’s Alex Marquez.
The test marked significant progress for Yamaha, with Quartararo testing a revised chassis, engine, and aerodynamic components.
“It’s just a test, but it feels good to see your name up there. We’re still far from the top, but I could enjoy the day, make a great pace, and do some good laps.”
Quartararo identified notable improvements in corner entry, thanks to Yamaha’s new chassis. “We improved where we transition from straight to full lean. That was the biggest gain,” he explained.
“Grip and power are still what we’re missing,” Quartararo admitted. “Santa Claus gave us a bit more power with the new engine, but I’ll be asking for even more in Malaysia.”
The updates included a new swingarm and fairing aimed at weight reduction and aerodynamic efficiency, however, these were just preliminary parts according to the Frenchman.
Yamaha’s team director, Massimo Meregalli, echoed Quartararo’s cautious optimism, noting that while feedback and results aligned, a clearer evaluation would come at February’s Sepang test.
Barcelona also marked the first time Yamaha fielded four riders in any session since 2022, with Jack Miller and Miguel Oliveira debuting on Pramac Yamaha bikes.
Quartararo praised the expanded feedback pool, particularly from riders transitioning from different manufacturers. “It’s important to hear their feedback,” he said, adding that such insights are vital for addressing the bike’s weaknesses.
With Yamaha back to four bikes on the MotoGP grid for 2025, the 2021 World Champion feels like Yamaha is on the right path. “I think we’re heading in the right direction,” he concluded.
The focus now shifts to the Sepang test, where Yamaha plans to introduce further significant upgrades. Should rumors during the Barcelona test turn out true, Yamaha’s test team could run a first early-development V4 engine in Sepang.
Yamaha had confirmed earlier in the season, the team was working on a V4 engine for a potential switch from their inline-4 arrengement mainly aimed at the 2027 season.
