Misano Adriatico, Italy – September 11, 2025 – Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. has officially unveiled its long-awaited V4-powered YZR-M1 prototype, marking a bold new era in the manufacturer’s MotoGP journey. The early-season presentation at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli highlights Yamaha’s renewed commitment to aggressive bike development and long-term competitiveness in the premier class.

The V4 prototype, finished in a striking full-blue Yamaha livery, will make its on-track debut this weekend during the Grand Prix of San Marino, piloted by Yamaha Factory Racing Test Rider Augusto Fernández in a special wild-card appearance. Fans and MotoGP insiders will then see Fabio Quartararo and Álex Rins ride the new machine during the official San Marino MotoGP Test on Monday, September 15.

Yamaha’s New Development Strategy

The unveiling took place inside the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP hospitality, where Yamaha’s top management – including Takahiro Sumi (General Manager, Motor Sports Development Division), Paolo Pavesio (Managing Director, Yamaha Motor Racing), Kazuhiro Masuda (Project Leader), and Max Bartolini (Technical Director) – presented the groundbreaking project.

They emphasized Yamaha’s new structure and mindset for 2025, underscoring the importance of the V4 engine platform in preparing for the 2026 MotoGP season and beyond.

“The introduction of the prototype this early in the season reflects our more aggressive approach to bike development,”said Pavesio. “It’s a crucial step in Yamaha’s long-term vision to return to the front of MotoGP.”

Test Riders at the Core of Development

The spotlight also shone on Andrea Dovizioso, Test Rider and Rider Performance Advisor, and Augusto Fernández, who recently extended his contract as Yamaha’s Official Test Rider through 2027. Their combined expertise has been instrumental in shaping the V4 project, with extensive private testing already carried out – including at Misano.

Fernández’s wild-card entry this weekend is aimed exclusively at data collection, with Yamaha clarifying that no direct development decisions will be based on the race results. Instead, the focus remains on gathering valuable feedback in a competitive MotoGP environment.

A Historic Step for Yamaha

The unveiling of the V4 YZR-M1 prototype represents one of Yamaha’s most ambitious technical undertakings in recent history. With its combination of seasoned riders, cutting-edge engineering, and a bold new development philosophy, Yamaha is positioning itself to make a strong comeback in the MotoGP championship fight.

MotoGP fans worldwide will be watching closely as Yamaha’s new era begins on track at Misano.