Few riders in MotoGP embody resilience and loyalty quite like Fabio Quartararo. Since bursting onto the scene in 2019, the Frenchman has carried the banner for Yamaha through moments of triumph, including his historic 2021 world championship, and periods of deep frustration as the team struggled to adapt to MotoGP’s evolving demands. Despite consecutive seasons marked by disappointing results, Quartararo has continued to place faith in Yamaha, a decision that continues to intrigue fans and critics alike. The question is simple: with so many hurdles and tempting alternatives on the grid, why does Quartararo still trust Yamaha?

From Champion to Challenger

Quartararo’s partnership with Yamaha reached its peak in 2021, when he became the first French rider to win the MotoGP world championship. His aggressive yet precise riding style perfectly complemented the Yamaha M1’s famed corner speed and smooth handling. However, as the series transitioned into an era dominated by aerodynamic advances, ride-height devices, and blistering top speeds, Yamaha’s inline-four concept began to show its age.

By 2022 and 2023, Ducati had established dominance with its V4 machinery, KTM and Aprilia surged forward with constant updates, and Honda—even amidst its own struggles—had the financial power to chase improvements. Yamaha, on the other hand, found itself lagging behind, unable to deliver the top speed, grip, and electronic refinement that Quartararo consistently requested.

For many, the solution seemed obvious: a rider of Quartararo’s caliber should seek a move elsewhere. Yet, year after year, he doubled down on Yamaha, extending his contract and expressing his belief that the manufacturer could return to the top.

Faith in the Future: The V4 Project

One of the key reasons Quartararo continues to trust Yamaha lies in its long-term V4 project, set to debut in 2026. For years, Yamaha clung to its inline-four philosophy, proud of the M1’s handling advantage. But as the gap in top speed and acceleration widened, the need for a fundamental shift became undeniable.

At the Misano test in 2025, Quartararo finally had the chance to try Yamaha’s prototype V4 machine. His feedback was blunt: “So far, I don’t see progress in the areas we need. The top speed is pretty slow, the grip is not there, and the electronics need work.” Still, he stopped short of outright criticism. Instead, he framed 2026 as the real turning point: “The bike we’ll be using in 2026 is the one that will decide my future. I think they want to keep me, and they know what they have to do.”

This demonstrates that while he remains frustrated with Yamaha’s present struggles, Quartararo sees the V4 project as a light at the end of the tunnel—a chance to reset the narrative and rebuild a championship-winning package.

Loyalty Rooted in History

Another reason behind Quartararo’s enduring trust is the history and relationship he has built with Yamaha. Since joining MotoGP in 2019, Yamaha has been his only manufacturer, providing him with the platform to establish himself as one of the sport’s elite. Together, they have shared podiums, victories, and a world title—milestones that create a strong emotional bond between rider and team.

Unlike riders who are quick to jump ship when opportunities arise, Quartararo values continuity. His trust in Yamaha is not blind but rooted in the belief that the manufacturer has both the resources and the determination to deliver improvements. To him, abandoning Yamaha would mean walking away from a project that he has helped shape since his rookie season.

Mental Fortitude and Perspective

Quartararo’s decision to remain loyal also speaks volumes about his mental fortitude. In MotoGP, where riders face immense pressure to perform, it would be easy to grow disillusioned with a struggling machine. Yet Quartararo has repeatedly emphasized the importance of mindset.

He acknowledges the frustration of fighting for mid-pack positions but maintains a long-term outlook. “It’s not easy, of course,” he admitted after another challenging weekend in 2025. “But I believe in Yamaha. I believe in myself. We know the areas where we are weak, and I hope in the future we can fix them.”

This perspective shows that Quartararo is not simply racing for short-term success. Instead, he is committed to building something sustainable, even if it means enduring temporary hardships.

Inspiration From Rivals

Quartararo’s loyalty may also be reinforced by observing rivals like Marc Marquez, who has staged one of the greatest comebacks in MotoGP history. After years of injury struggles and an underperforming Honda, Marquez made bold career choices—first moving to Gresini Ducati, then securing a factory ride—and is now on the verge of another title. Quartararo has openly praised Marquez’s resilience, calling his 2025 season “a 10 out of 10.”

If Marquez can reinvent himself after adversity, Quartararo seems to believe Yamaha can, too. Rather than abandon the project, he appears to draw inspiration from the idea that loyalty and perseverance can pay off in the long run.

The Role of Trust and Influence

MotoGP is not just about machinery; it’s also about trust between rider and manufacturer. Quartararo has built strong relationships with Yamaha’s engineers, mechanics, and management. That sense of mutual respect and collaboration plays a significant role in his decision to stay.

He has also acknowledged the importance of family and his close support circle in helping him stay grounded. While critics and fans may call for him to leave, Quartararo insists that the most important thing is alignment with his team and entourage. “What matters is that my entourage and Yamaha are aligned,” he recently said when asked about his future.

Risks and Rewards

Of course, Quartararo’s continued loyalty carries risks. If Yamaha fails to deliver with the 2026 V4, he could find himself stuck in a cycle of frustration during what should be the prime years of his career. Rivals like Ducati, KTM, and Aprilia are already fielding competitive packages, and opportunities to switch may not remain open forever.

However, the rewards of staying could be immense. Should Yamaha succeed in turning the tide, Quartararo would be at the center of one of MotoGP’s greatest redemption stories. Winning another championship with the Japanese marque would not only elevate his legacy but also reaffirm the value of patience and trust in an era where quick fixes are often favored.

Conclusion

Fabio Quartararo’s decision to remain loyal to Yamaha, despite the team’s well-documented struggles, reveals a rider who values trust, continuity, and long-term vision over immediate gratification. From his faith in the upcoming 2026 V4 project to his deep bond with the Yamaha family, Quartararo continues to see potential where others see limitations.

He understands the risks but also recognizes the rewards of staying the course. For Quartararo, Yamaha is not just an employer—it is a partner in a journey that is far from finished. And while critics may question his patience, the Frenchman remains steadfast: he trusts that the future will bring the improvements he and Yamaha need to rise again.

If Yamaha delivers, Quartararo’s loyalty will be vindicated, and his story will stand as one of MotoGP’s most powerful lessons in resilience, faith, and perseverance.