Pramac Yamaha's technical director, Alberto Giribuola, shared his observations about Toprak Razgatlıoğlu in an interview with the Italian publication GPOne. Giribuola, who worked extensively with Andrea Dovizioso, a 15-time MotoGP winner, discussed the similarities and key differences between the two riders.
Dovizioso comparison: High speed difference is the determining factor.
Giribuola stated that Razgatlıoğlu could be considered in the same category as Dovizioso in terms of late braking. However, he pointed out that the Italian legend exhibited significant limitations on high-speed tracks, noting: Dovizioso, for example, would noticeably lose power in the fast sections of tracks like Phillip Island. On Toprak, the opposite is true: the Turkish rider displays pure talent, almost magically, even in corners requiring high speed.
The team principal stated that Razgatlıoğlu's aggressive approach to cornering surprised even them: "He dives into some corners with such aggression that even we are startled while watching." Giribuola emphasized that this characteristic makes Toprak not only a master of braking but also a superior driver in many different areas.
The advantage of instant learning and a point of reference.
Another point Giribuola particularly emphasized was Razgatlıoğlu's ability to adapt instantly by observing his rivals. According to the team principal, Toprak quickly adopts techniques he's never tried before by following the rider in front of him and matching their pace. "He has an incredible capacity for observation and adaptation; he learns very quickly. Even having a single point of reference in front of him leads to a huge leap in his performance. Whereas many riders struggle to keep up with someone faster than themselves," he said.
2027 squad and Pirelli advantage
Razgatlıoğlu, who has a multi-year contract with Yamaha, will continue to compete in the 2027 season wearing the Pramac Yamaha jersey. MotoGP is expected to switch to Pirelli tires, familiar from WorldSBK, in 2027; this change could mean a significant advantage for the Turkish rider, who has gained many years of experience with these tires, compared to his rivals.
In terms of team lineups, Toprak's new teammate at Pramac is expected to be Izan Guevara, a prominent name in Moto2. At the factory Yamaha team, Jorge Martin and Ai Ogura will take over the seats from Fabio Quartararo and Alex Rins. While Quartararo's transfer to Honda has been officially announced, it is reported that Rins is considering WorldSBK options for 2027.