Toprak Razgatlioglu reveals how long it will take him to challenge Marc Marquez in MotoGP

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Given his incredible achievements and talent in World Superbikes, it is no surprise to see people already pitting Toprak Razgatlioglu against Marc Marquez in MotoGP in 2026.

The Turkish rider will join Pramac Yamaha next season as he finally moves across to the premier class. Having won three WSBK titles, many anticipate that he could be a thorn in the side of the MotoGP frontrunners.

However, MotoGP fans doubt Razgatlioglu can compete with Marquez in his debut season. The reality is that the 29-year-old has to get used to an entirely new bike and tyres, and he has joined the team and manufacturer that just finished last in 2025.

Neil Hodgson thinks Razgatlioglu joined the ‘wrong manufacturer’, with Yamaha sitting bottom of the standings. They will introduce their V4 machine in 2026, but there are doubts that it will be able to compete at the front with Marquez’s Ducati.

But the Iwata outfit’s new signing is remaining optimistic about his chances. Razgatlioglu has had private calls with Marquez ahead of his MotoGP debut, and he is looking to take the fight to the Spaniard.

Toprak Razgatlioglu reveals his ‘biggest target’ is to fight Marc Marquez by 2027

Speaking with InMoto & Motosprint at the FIM Awards, Razgatlioglu revealed that he had spoken with Marquez at the event. His ‘biggest target’ is to be fighting with him by 2027.

“Yeah, yesterday, we were talking with him, a lot of things, not only the bike, not only for the MotoGP,” he said.

“And he’s very funny and we are really enjoying the dinner and he’s [a] really good guy. I always love him and also always respect him, because, especially this year, he did [an] incredible job.

“He showed to everyone how to come back very strong and I’m very happy for him and for his family.

“And he’s really the strong rider and next year also we are riding with him. But my biggest target, I hope maybe next year, maybe 2027, we are battling with him in the race. This is my biggest target. If we are doing this, I’m really enjoying I think.”

READ MORE: Everything to know about Toprak Razgatlioglu from net worth to nickname

Toprak Razgatlioglu is already feeling the pressure ahead of his MotoGP debut

Many people are expecting Razgatlioglu to hit the ground running and become a force in MotoGP. But the 29-year-old has a mountain to climb with Pramac in 2026.

Razgatlioglu is already ‘stressed’ ahead of his MotoGP debut, knowing all eyes will be on him. He has to get accustomed to the V4 and the Michelin tyres, which will likely mean he has to adapt his riding style from WSBK.

The Turkish rider knows he could be in for a difficult debut season. In fact, Razgatlioglu thinks it will be tough battling for 15th in 2026, similar to how his WSBK rival Nicolo Bulega fared in his stand-in appearances with Ducati at the end of 2025.

With Pirelli coming to MotoGP in 2027, that should, in theory, be a plus for the Pramac rider, given he is used to the rubber in WSBK. Marco Melandri thinks Razgatlioglu will ’cause trouble’ when the tyre is introduced.