The landscape of professional motorcycle racing has shifted significantly this year as one of its most electrifying talents, Toprak Razgatlıoğlu, makes his highly anticipated transition to the premier class. After a decade of dominance in the World Superbike Championship (WorldSBK)—culminating in world titles in 2021, 2024, and 2025—the Turkish superstar has traded the production-based machinery of his former life for the prototype intensity of MotoGP.
Now competing for the Prima Pramac Yamaha team, Razgatlıoğlu’s 2026 season marks the first time a Turkish rider has ever graced the MotoGP grid. It is a transition that has captured the attention of fans across the UK, many of whom followed his masterclass performances on the BMW M 1000 RR before his landmark move.
A Steep Learning Curve in MotoGP
Transitioning from the WorldSBK paddock to the high-speed prototype world of MotoGP is widely considered one of the toughest challenges in motorsport. While Toprak’s aggressive braking and “stoppie” entries into corners became his trademark in Superbikes, the Yamaha M1 demands a different level of finesse regarding electronic management and corner-speed discipline.
As of late May 2026, Razgatlıoğlu is navigating his debut campaign, currently finding his footing in a field packed with seasoned champions. His best result to date, a 13th-place finish at the French Grand Prix, highlights the gap between the two disciplines. This weekend, the focus shifts to the iconic Mugello Circuit in Italy. The high-speed layout, featuring a 1.1km straight and rapid elevation changes, will serve as a vital benchmark for his adaptation to the Yamaha package.
Why the Move Matters to UK Fans
For British racing enthusiasts, the move is particularly poignant. With the UK having a rich history of supporting WorldSBK, the sight of the man who redefined the series now battling the best in the world on a MotoGP prototype has been a major talking point.
While Toprak has moved on to the premier class, his legacy in the World Superbike Championship remains etched in recent history. His former team, the ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK squad, has moved on with new riders Danilo Petrucci and Miguel Oliveira, but the “Razgatlıoğlu era” of dominance—defined by four consecutive hat-tricks during his 2025 title run—remains the gold standard against which current riders are measured.
“I’ve achieved a lot in WorldSBK, and I’m grateful to BMW and my team there. But MotoGP is the highest level in motorcycle racing, and I want to prove myself among the best in the world.” — Toprak Razgatlıoğlu on his career move.
Key Facts: 2026 Season
- Team: Prima Pramac Yamaha.
- Current Standing: 22nd in the MotoGP standings (as of late May 2026).
- WorldSBK Legacy: Three-time World Champion (2021, 2024, 2025).
- Next Big Challenge: The Brembo Grand Prix of Italy at Mugello, June 1, 2026.
FAQ
What channel is WorldSBK on in the UK?
In the United Kingdom and Ireland, WorldSBK coverage for the 2026 season is broadcast on TNT Sports. Highlights are available on ITV4 after each round.
Where can I watch Toprak in MotoGP?
MotoGP coverage in the UK is primarily handled by TNT Sports. You can watch all race weekend sessions, including the main race at Mugello, through the TNT Sports channels and the discovery+ app.
Is Toprak still linked with BMW?
No, Toprak is currently under a two-year contract (2026–2027) with the Prima Pramac Yamaha team. His time with the BMW Motorrad WorldSBK team concluded following his successful 2025 championship-winning season.
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As the 2026 season moves into the European summer, the spotlight on Razgatlıoğlu will only intensify. Mugello represents a “home away from home” for many in the paddock, and for Toprak, it is another opportunity to unlock the potential of the Yamaha M1. While the path to the podium is long, the transition of the “El Turco” to the global stage remains one of the most compelling stories in sport this year.
