Start of a New Era: V4-Powered Yamaha YZR-M1 Unveiled

Yamaha has taken a bold step into a new era of MotoGP, unveiling its all-new V4-powered YZR-M1 at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli. The big reveal marks a major shift in strategy for the Japanese manufacturer, which has long relied on its signature inline-four configuration.

For years, Yamaha was the only team on the MotoGP grid sticking with an inline-four, squeezing every ounce of performance from that engine. But with straight-line speed proving to be a persistent weakness, the decision has finally been made: it’s time to go V4, the same configuration that has rolled Ducati to dominance in recent seasons.

At this stage, the new YZR-M1 remains a prototype. While Yamaha hasn’t revealed technical details of the engine, the bike debuted in striking blue factory livery with several noticeable changes. Subtle aerodynamic tweaks are visible across the bodywork, including a reshaped tail and side aero elements, a revised belly pan, and relocated side vents. Most strikingly, the exhaust now features a twin-silencer system, hinting at the V4’s very different heartbeat.

Fans won’t have to wait long to see it in motion. The prototype is set to speed at the San Marino Grand Prix, where test rider Augusto Fernández will run it as a wild card entry. Factory Yamaha riders Fabio Quartararo and Álex Rins are expected to swing a leg over the new machine during the post-race test session on Monday.

Still, Yamaha is managing expectations. “The sole purpose of the wild card is data gathering,” the team stressed. “No bike development decisions will be based on this weekend’s results.”

The long-term goal? A full race debut in the 2026 MotoGP season, depending on how the testing program unfolds.

For Yamaha, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Once a powerhouse with multiple world titles, the Iwata-based squad has struggled in recent years, watching rivals seize the spotlight.

Now, with the V4 YZR-M1, fans are hoping this is the breakthrough that will put Yamaha back on top, and maybe give Fabio Quarataro the firepower to challenge Ducati's Marc Márquez head-to-head.