Toprak Razgatlioglu could play an ‘invaluable’ role in the development of Pirelli’s MotoGP tyres

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Toprak Razgatlioglu is involved in a MotoGP tyre test in Jerez this week. The riders in attendance have access to both Michelin and Pirelli rubber.

For Razgatlioglu, this is a precious opportunity to complete more laps on the unfamiliar Michelin tyres. This is one of the biggest differences between MotoGP and World Superbikes.

Razgatlioglu is thought to be the only full-time MotoGP rider on track at the Spanish Grand Prix venue. KTM and Aprilia have sent test riders Pol Espargaro and Lorenzo Savadori, while Yamaha have also dispatched Andrea Dovizioso (Honda and Ducati have elected not to take part).

What impact will Pirelli’s plan have on MotoGP in 2027?

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Pirelli could lean on Toprak Razgatlioglu for MotoGP tyre development

Razgatlioglu is clearly at a disadvantage compared to the rest of the MotoGP field this season, with the possible exception of Moto2 graduate Diogo Moreira, because he is still learning the Michelin tyre characteristics.

But from 2027, the balance will shift in his favour as the sport switches to Pirelli rubber. Given his unique experience in both championships, Razgatlioglu will be a ‘particularly significant’ asset to the Italian manufacturer.

• READ MORE: Alvaro Bautista slams MotoGP for ‘helping’ Toprak Razgatlioglu with seat aero rules

As reported by GPOne, his contribution could prove ‘invaluable’ in the development of the tyres. It’s not a stretch to say that this will enhance his competitive advantage.

Danilo Petrucci says Michelin tyres demand the ‘opposite’ riding style to the Pirelli offering. They don’t offer the same front-end ‘confidence’ that made him so potent in Superbikes.

Toprak Razgatlioglu’s camp have set an unrealistic goal for his rookie season

Honda rider Luca Marini says Razgatlioglu will be ‘competitive’ again in 2027 after the tyre change.

Razgatlioglu’s manager wants him to be the top Yamaha before his rookie season is out but, if Marini’s instincts are correct, beating Fabio Quartararo this year may be too big an ask.

TNT Sports pundit Neil Hodgson said Razgatlioglu’s debut performance in Thailand was ‘fantastic’. He suffered his first MotoGP crash in the Sprint but blamed it on a technical problem.

The Turkish rider finished 17th in the Grand Prix, beating Pramac teammate Jack Miller. He was just over six seconds shy of scoring a point.