Ducati boss asks FIA president to investigate Yamaha’s UNUSUAL CONTRACT with Toprak Razgatlıoğlu as Ducati suddenly finds many SIGNS OF VIOLATIONS !!
In a dramatic turn of events in the motorsport world, the owner of Ducati has formally requested the FIA chairman to launch an investigation into what has been described as an “unusual contract” between Yamaha and World Superbike champion Toprak Razgatlıoğlu. The call for scrutiny comes after Ducati allegedly uncovered several signs of potential violations in the agreement, raising questions about the integrity of Yamaha’s dealings in the WorldSBK series. This development has sent shockwaves through the paddock, with implications that could reshape team dynamics and rider contracts in the championship.
The controversy stems from Razgatlıoğlu’s tenure with Yamaha, where he rode a factory Yamaha YZF-R1 from 2020 to 2023, securing the 2021 World Superbike Championship title. During his time with Yamaha, Razgatlıoğlu became a standout performer, ending Jonathan Rea’s six-year dominance and becoming the first Turkish rider to claim the WorldSBK crown. His success, coupled with a two-year contract extension signed in 2021, made him a cornerstone of Yamaha’s racing strategy. However, Ducati’s recent allegations suggest that the terms of this contract may have breached regulations, prompting their urgent appeal to the FIA.
Ducati’s concerns reportedly center on undisclosed clauses in Razgatlıoğlu’s contract, which they claim could violate WorldSBK’s financial or competitive regulations. While specific details remain confidential, sources indicate that Ducati’s suspicions arose during a routine review of competitor contracts, a practice not uncommon in the highly competitive world of motorsport. The Italian manufacturer, known for its dominant Panigale V4 R in recent WorldSBK seasons, believes that Yamaha may have employed irregular incentives or terms to retain Razgatlıoğlu, potentially giving them an unfair advantage in the championship.
The timing of Ducati’s request is particularly significant, as Razgatlıoğlu parted ways with Yamaha at the end of the 2023 season to join BMW, where he won his second WorldSBK title in 2024. This move followed a period of tension, with Yamaha refusing to release Razgatlıoğlu early from his contract for BMW testing in late 2023, a decision that contrasted with Kawasaki’s early release of Jonathan Rea to Yamaha. Ducati’s allegations may also be fueled by competitive frustrations, as Razgatlıoğlu’s performances, including his 2021 title win, challenged Ducati’s dominance, particularly against their star rider, Álvaro Bautista.
Yamaha has yet to issue an official response to the allegations, but the manufacturer’s history with Razgatlıoğlu suggests a strong relationship built on mutual success. The 2021 contract extension, announced before the Donington Park round, was celebrated as a testament to Razgatlıoğlu’s faith in Yamaha’s R1 and their shared goal of championship glory. Yamaha’s Road Racing Manager, Andrea Dosoli, praised Razgatlıoğlu’s talent and contribution, emphasizing the team’s commitment to supporting his ambitions. However, Ducati’s claims now cast a shadow over this partnership, raising questions about whether Yamaha’s financial or strategic maneuvers crossed ethical or regulatory boundaries.
The FIA, as the governing body overseeing WorldSBK, faces a delicate task in addressing Ducati’s request. An investigation could involve a detailed review of Yamaha’s contract with Razgatlıoğlu, including financial disclosures, performance clauses, and any potential side agreements. If violations are found, penalties could range from fines to retrospective sanctions on Yamaha’s 2021 championship results, though such an outcome would be unprecedented and controversial. The FIA’s response will likely set a precedent for how contract disputes are handled in the series, especially as WorldSBK grows in global prominence.
Razgatlıoğlu, now preparing for his 2026 MotoGP debut with Pramac Yamaha, has remained silent on the matter, with his manager, Kenan Sofuoğlu, focusing on his future in the premier class. The Turkish rider’s move to MotoGP follows years of speculation, with Yamaha’s decision to sign him for Pramac signaling their continued belief in his potential. However, Ducati’s investigation request could complicate his transition, particularly if it reignites tensions between the two manufacturers.
For Ducati, the push for an investigation may reflect broader frustrations with the competitive landscape of WorldSBK. The team has faced criticism for their technical dominance, with Razgatlıoğlu himself noting Ducati’s strength in 2025 races. By questioning Yamaha’s past practices, Ducati may aim to level the playing field or deflect attention from their own advantages. Regardless, the motorsport community is bracing for a contentious battle off the track, one that could have lasting repercussions for all involved.
As the FIA deliberates, fans and insiders alike await clarity on whether Yamaha’s contract with Razgatlıoğlu truly contained irregularities or if Ducati’s claims are a strategic move in a high-stakes rivalry. The outcome of this investigation could redefine trust and transparency in WorldSBK, making it a pivotal moment for the sport.