Here’s a bold statement: MotoGP riders might find themselves in hot water if they ever tried to switch to World Superbikes—unless they’re on a Ducati. And this is the part most people miss: Toprak Razgatlioglu, the double World Superbike champion, believes the current MotoGP grid would face an uphill battle in WSBK without the advantage of Ducati machinery. But why does this matter? Let’s dive in.
The Turkish racing sensation is set to make his MotoGP debut in the 2026 season after signing a multi-year deal with Yamaha’s Pramac squad. This move isn’t just about 2026—it’s a strategic play for 2027, when MotoGP transitions to Pirelli tires, a brand Razgatlioglu knows inside out from his World Superbike days. But here’s where it gets controversial: while many see this as a smooth transition, Razgatlioglu himself admits his first year on Michelin tires could be a real challenge. In a candid interview with GPOne, he acknowledged that if he struggles in MotoGP, World Superbikes might face some backlash. Yet, he’s quick to point out that MotoGP riders would likely face similar difficulties if they switched to WSBK without the dominance of a Ducati.
“2026 will be my toughest year,” he said. “MotoGP is a completely different beast compared to SBK. I’m aiming for a top 10 or even top 15 finish, but I see this year as more of an apprenticeship—a chance to learn, adapt, and grow without the pressure of expectations.” He also added, “If I don’t perform well, people will doubt Superbikes. But I stand by my belief that MotoGP riders would struggle in WSBK without a Ducati. That’s just my perspective.”
Despite leading the 2025 World Superbike season on a BMW, with a 39-point advantage over Ducati’s Nicolo Bulega, Razgatlioglu has been vocal about how regulations favor the Panigale V4 over other bikes. Next season, he’ll be replaced at BMW by Miguel Oliveira, the very rider taking his spot at Pramac MotoGP. Oliveira will team up with Danilo Petrucci, who’s making the switch from Ducati. Meanwhile, the next-best BMW rider in the standings, Michael van der Mark, sits far behind in 12th place.
Here’s the thought-provoking question: Is Razgatlioglu’s claim about Ducati’s dominance in WSBK a fair assessment, or is he underestimating the skills of MotoGP riders? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this debate is far from over!
