Yamaha officially announced its transition of its YZR-M1 from the iconic inline-four engine to the V4 configuration for the 2026 MotoGP season.
“Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. confirms that the YZR-M1 machines will be powered by the V4 engine starting from the 2026 MotoGP season,” says Yamaha. “This decision aligns with Yamaha’s earlier stated intentions to transition, underlining the continuity and transparency of Yamaha’s engine development strategy.”
Yamaha says that its inline-four engine has competed in 429 Grands Prix, won 125 races, stood on 350-plus podiums, and helped Yamaha claim eight riders titles, seven team titles, five manufacturer titles and five MotoGP triple crowns.”
“As MotoGP evolves, Yamaha embraces the challenge of adapting to new technical demands while preserving its DNA,” says Yamaha. “The move to the V4 marks a significant milestone in Yamaha’s pursuit of performance and innovation. The new configuration is expected to deliver improved acceleration, better handling under braking, and greater adaptability to the most recent tires and aerodynamics requirements. The quick development process over the course of the 2025 season reflects Yamaha’s commitment to be at the forefront of MotoGP technology while honoring its heritage.”
The weekend’s Grand Prix of the Valencian Community marked the final race and the closing chapter for Yamaha’s inline-four engine in MotoGP. Stepping into a new era, all 2026 Yamaha MotoGP riders will ride with the V4 engine during Tuesday’s [November 18] Valencia test.
“The inline-four has been at the heart of Yamaha’s philosophy for decades,” said Takahiro Sumi, general manager, Motor Sports Development Division. “It delivered unforgettable victories and shaped our reputation for precision and control. We are proud of what this engine has achieved and of the riders who made history with it, as they all together have shaped our racing heritage.
“However, MotoGP is constantly evolving, and we must evolve with it. The V4 represents a new chapter for Yamaha, one that combines our ‘Spirit of Challenge’ with our racing DNA and the technical solutions required to fight at the top.
“Our goal remains the same: to give our riders the best possible motorcycle to win and to bring fans all around the world the feeling of ‘Kando.’” CN
Click here for all the latest MotoGP news.
