Quartararo ends Yamaha development work over Pirelli test refusal

Fabio Quartararo has declared he will no longer assist Yamaha with development work for the 2027 MotoGP season, citing the manufacturer's refusal to let him test Pirelli's new tyres. The 2021 world champion made the statement following the Aragon Grand Prix, where he felt reduced to the role of a test rider while the team evaluated new components. Quartararo is leaving Yamaha after eight seasons to join Honda next year, and his frustration has now reached a breaking point. The immediate trigger for Quartararo's outburst was Yamaha's decision to deny him participation in the upcoming in-season test at the Red Bull Ring in September. This test will allow race riders to sample Pirelli's new 2027 tyre compounds for only the second time. For riders, gaining experience on the new rubber is considered crucial as it is expected to be significantly different from the current Michelins. However, manufacturers have been cautious about letting departing riders take part in such tests, as it would also give them access to new 850cc bikes and potentially allow secrets to be taken to rival teams. Quartararo explained his position directly. "I wanted to do the tests in Austria.