Pramac MotoGP team manager Gino Borsoi has come to the defense of Yamaha's new V4 engine project, calling the criticism unfair. His remarks contrast with rider complaints, especially from Fabio Quartararo, who have expressed frustration with the current engine's performance.
In a surprising move, Pramac MotoGP team manager Gino Borsoi has defended Yamaha’s new V4 engine project, arguing that the criticism directed at the Japanese manufacturer is unwarranted. His statements stand in stark contrast to the complaints from Yamaha riders, particularly Fabio Quartararo, who have voiced frustration over the current engine’s performance.
During Monday’s MotoGP testing, Borsoi said: “Why do people think Yamaha isn’t doing a great job with its V4 project?”
What is the Yamaha V4 engine story?
Yamaha is the last manufacturer in MotoGP to switch to a V4 engine, a design with four cylinders in a V configuration that offers advantages in balance and power compared to the traditional inline-four engine. The project has sparked widespread debate, especially after lead rider Fabio Quartararo described the current engine as uncompetitive.
Why is Borsoi defending Yamaha?
Borsoi, who leads the independent Pramac team closely linked to Yamaha, believes the criticism is exaggerated. He added: “Yamaha is working hard, and the progress they have made in a short time is amazing. People expect immediate results, but developing a V4 engine takes time.”
When will the V4 engine appear in races?
According to informed sources, the new V4 engine is expected to debut in MotoGP races during the 2025 or 2026 season, after intensive testing. Yamaha aims to close the gap with Honda and Ducati, which have been using V4 engines for years.
Does Pramac’s support change anything?
Support from the Pramac team, a close technical partner of Yamaha, lends weight to the project. However, the biggest challenge remains convincing riders, especially Quartararo, that the new engine will bring Yamaha back to the forefront.
What does this mean for the Gulf market?
MotoGP fans in Saudi Arabia and the UAE are closely following these developments. Yamaha has a large fan base in the region, and any improvement in performance will boost competition in the championship. However, there is no direct impact on the local market, as sportbikes like the YZF-R1 continue with their current engines.
Key facts
- Engine: New V4 under development
- Manufacturer: Yamaha
- Defender: Gino Borsoi, Pramac team manager
- Status: Yamaha is the last manufacturer to switch to V4
- Expected debut: 2025-2026 racing season
Frequently asked questions
Why are Yamaha riders criticizing the V4 engine?
Riders, especially Fabio Quartararo, are frustrated because the current engine lacks competitiveness compared to the V4 engines from Honda and Ducati. They want faster results.
When will the V4 engine be ready for racing?
The new engine is expected to debut in the 2025 or 2026 season, after testing and development. Yamaha is working to accelerate the timeline.
Does this affect Yamaha’s commercial motorcycles?
No, the V4 project is specific to MotoGP bikes. Commercial models like the YZF-R1 continue with their current engines, though technologies may eventually trickle down to production.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Yamaha riders criticizing the V4 engine?
Riders, especially Fabio Quartararo, are frustrated because the current engine lacks competitiveness compared to the V4 engines from Honda and Ducati. They want faster results.
When will the V4 engine be ready for racing?
The new engine is expected to debut in the 2025 or 2026 season, after testing and development. Yamaha is working to accelerate the timeline.
Does this affect Yamaha's commercial motorcycles?
No, the V4 project is specific to MotoGP bikes. Commercial models like the YZF-R1 continue with their current engines, though technologies may eventually trickle down to production.
Sources
- Motorsport.com — Pramac MotoGP boss: 'Why do people think Yamaha isn't doing a great job with its V4 project?'
