WorldSBK | Toprak Razgatlıoglu Set to Blaze the Track with Yamaha YZR-M1 at Jerez MotoGP Test

Toprak Razgatlıoğlu, the 2021 WorldSBK Superbike World Champion, is gearing up for an exciting new challenge as he gets the chance to test the cutting-edge Yamaha YZR-M1 MotoGP bike during an upcoming development test at the prestigious Jerez circuit, in Spain.

Accompanied by Yamaha’s esteemed MotoGP Test Rider, Cal Crutchlow, Toprak is set to embark on a thrilling two-day testing session on April 10th and 11th at Jerez.

This eagerly anticipated opportunity marks the Turkish sensation’s second outing aboard the Yamaha YZR-M1, with his first attempt at Motorland Aragon last year sadly curtailed by adverse weather conditions.

The Jerez circuit, spanning 4.428 kilometers, aligns perfectly with Razgatlıoğlu’s distinctive riding style. This upcoming test promises to be an ideal platform for the Turkish prodigy to amass valuable track time and acclimate himself to the nuances of the YZR-M1 machine.

Lin Jarvis, Managing Director Yamaha Motor Racing Srl: “Firstly, let me say it is our pleasure to be able to give Toprak another opportunity to ride the YZR-M1. I was unable to be present at his previous test but this time I will be in Jerez to follow the testing and I will depart straight from there to attend the Grand Prix of the Americas in Austin next weekend. Toprak is an extraordinarily talented motorcycle racer, and I am very curious to see his speed on our Factory MotoGP machine. He will have the chance to ride alongside Cal who will be there for the ongoing development testing of our 2023 YZR-M1.”

Andrea Dosoli, Road Racing Manager Yamaha Motor Europe N.V.: “I would like to thank both Yamaha Motor Company and Yamaha Motor Racing for giving Toprak the opportunity to test the YZR-M1 once again. As the reigning Superbike World Champion, Toprak’s test aboard the Yamaha YZR-M1 last year was highly anticipated by many in both the MotoGP and WorldSBK paddocks. Unfortunately, it was difficult for him to fully familiarise with the YZR-M1 at the Aragon test due to the disruption caused by the weather. This time around at Jerez, a track at which Toprak has traditionally been very strong, it looks like we’re going to enjoy almost perfect testing conditions. Toprak’s focus at this test will, once again, be on getting a feel for the characteristics of the YZR-M1 and the Michelin tyres, whereas we are very interested to see how quickly a WorldSBK rider of his calibre can adapt to the unique demands of riding a MotoGP bike.”

Toprak Razgatlıoğlu: “I am looking forward to testing the YZR-M1 MotoGP bike at Jerez, a track I like a lot. The last test in Aragon was limited by the weather, but in Jerez it looks like we’ll have better conditions and more track time. It will give me the chance to understand better the demands of racing a Factory MotoGP bike. Thanks to Yamaha for giving me this opportunity.”

As the anticipation builds, fans and experts alike eagerly await the outcome of Toprak Razgatlıoğlu’s highly anticipated Yamaha YZR-M1 test at Jerez. With his unwavering talent and the ideal track characteristics, Razgatlıoğlu’s second chance to showcase his skills aboard the cutting-edge MotoGP machine is poised to be nothing short of electrifying. As he blazes through the corners and pushes the limits, motorcycle racing enthusiasts brace for an unforgettable display of speed, skill, and sheer excitement.

photos: Yamaha