Rins questions timing of early Yamaha axe after poor start to MotoGP 2026

Alex Rins has admitted he is “surprised” that Yamaha has taken such an early decision to drop him from its factory team for the 2027 MotoGP season, especially with its new V4 bike still struggling on track.

Earlier this month, Autosport revealed that Yamaha has signed Trackhouse rider Ai Ogura to partner incoming Jorge Martin next year. That move, which has yet to be officially confirmed, is set to leave six-time grand prix winner Rins without a seat heading into MotoGP’s new 850cc era.

The Spaniard has scored just three points across the opening three races of 2026, compared to six for team-mate Fabio Quartararo, as Yamaha rolls out a radically overhauled bike built around a new V4 engine.

“If you know a little bit about motorbikes, it is difficult to understand,” said Rins. “In a really new project, how can you have the future decided in just three races, with the bike not performing at 100%?

“I gave it everything since day one, from when we first tried the bike in Barcelona in that private test. So it’s curious. For sure it’s surprising for me that in three races they decide everything.”

Rins joined the Iwata-based manufacturer in 2024 after successful spells with Suzuki and Honda, but has struggled to replicate that form on the M1.

Injuries and Yamaha’s broader competitiveness issues have impacted his results, and he has consistently trailed Quartararo. He was also outscored last season by Pramac rider Jack Miller.

Alex Rins, Yamaha Factory Racing

Photo by: Gold and Goose Photography / LAT Images / via Getty Images

The 30-year-old revealed he first learned of his likely exit through media reports before receiving informal confirmation from Yamaha team director Massimo Meregalli.

“When did I find out? I found out when it was in the press,” Rins said. “Eleven days ago I called Massimo for a normal conversation - I have a really good relationship with him. I asked him straight away, ‘Do you have any update?’

“He didn’t say anything at first. Then I said, ‘Maio…’ and he told me, ‘I can’t say anything officially, but don’t say anything - we signed the second rider.’ That’s it. I tried to ask who, but he didn’t say.”

Yamaha’s decision leaves Rins in a difficult position, with few seats still available on the grid as teams move early to secure their 2027 line-ups. When asked about his future, he said: “Right now, I don’t know. The only option I have is to go full throttle on track.

“With a bike that is not really performing, you cannot be at the top. You have to ride on your own and give your best. We are going to work hard.”

When asked whether a satellite seat at Pramac could still be an option, Rins was doubtful: "They didn’t say anything about this. Honestly, I don’t think so.”

He also played down the prospect of a switch to World Superbike, adding: “I feel that I need to stay here. I still have a lot of potential in this championship.”