Jorge Martin and Ai Ogura set to join Yamaha in 2027 as rider market chaos continues

While the announcement has been expected for some time now, the official confirmation only took place this morning and follows on from the announcement of Marquez's extension with Ducati, Acosta's move from KTM and Bagnaia's switch to Aprilia.

Jorge Martin has been a stand-out rider of the last few years, and there's no denying his talents, Despite a rocky relationship with Aprilia, the Spaniard has repeatedly proved his worth and scored multiple victories in dramatic style as well as regularly contending for podiuns almost every single weekend.

By contrast, Ogura is a much more reserved character with a smoother riding style marked by efficiency and calmness. Though he started well enough as a rookie last, coming into the premier class as the Moto2 champion, in 2026 he has taken his performances to all-new heights, regularly competing for podiums and recently picking up his first MotoGP win in Assen last weekend.

Ogura is a man of few words, but one thing we know for certain is that it will certainly mean a lot for both him and Yamaha to be a Japanese rider now racing for one of the country’s most legendary motorcycle manufacturer.

The line-up makes Yamaha one of the strongest teams going into 2027. Both riders have a similar build and physique despite their different riding styles, but the real question is whether Yamaha can deliver them a competitive bike under the 850cc regulations. If they can, then Yamaha will undoubtedly be one of the teams to beat next year. Both riders are believed to have been signed on a two-year deal, keeping them both at Yamaha through 2027 and 2028.

Following yesterday's announcement that both Quartaro and Rins would leave the team at the end of 2026, the iconic team certainly plans to fill their boots with plenty of exceptional talent.