Alex Rins bemused by early Yamaha axe amid V4 engine struggles

Alex Rins, Yamaha Factory Racing

The 30-year-old revealed he first learned of his likely exit through media reports before receiving informal confirmation from Yamaha team director Massimo Meregalli.

“When did I find out? I found out when it was in the press,” Rins said. “Eleven days ago I called Massimo for a normal conversation - I have a really good relationship with him. I asked him straight away, ‘Do you have any update?’

“He didn’t say anything at first. Then I said, ‘Maio…’ and he told me, ‘I can’t say anything officially, but don’t say anything - we signed the second rider.’ That’s it. I tried to ask who, but he didn’t say.”

Yamaha’s decision leaves Rins in a difficult position, with few seats still available on the grid as teams move early to secure their 2027 line-ups. When asked about his future, he said: “Right now, I don’t know. The only option I have is to go full throttle on track.

“With a bike that is not really performing, you cannot be at the top. You have to ride on your own and give your best. We are going to work hard.”

When asked whether a satellite seat at Pramac could still be an option, Rins was doubtful: "They didn’t say anything about this. Honestly, I don’t think so.”

He also played down the prospect of a switch to World Superbike, adding: “I feel that I need to stay here. I still have a lot of potential in this championship.”

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