Pramac enters a new chapter in MotoGP after era-defining run

Pramac Racing leaves Ducati after nearly two decades to partner with Yamaha.

Miguel Oliveira of Portugal and Prima Pramac Yamaha rides during the free practice session of the MotoGP Thailand Grand Prix at Chang International Circuit in Buriram, Thailand, on February 28, 2025. Photo by Steve Wobser/Getty Images

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

Pramac Racing has officially ended its long-standing partnership with Ducati to become Yamaha’s satellite team, bringing an end to nearly two decades of collaboration that saw victories, deep-rooted relationships, and shared success in MotoGP. This shift marks a significant change in the paddock, as Pramac transitions from working with one of the most dominant manufacturers to supporting a team that is striving to regain competitiveness.

Paolo Campinoti, Pramac’s owner, acknowledged the emotional difficulty of the split in an interview with Corriere della Sera, but he emphasized that the decision was made with a clear, professional mindset.

“I always feel with Gigi Dall’Igna as if I miss a family member or a friend,” Campinoti said. “But we are professionals, and they will understand, just as I do. However, so many years together leave a mark. Saying goodbye as champions can be difficult, but it’s also easier when you know you’ve completed a cycle.”

A bold new direction with Yamaha

The move to Yamaha presents an entirely different challenge for Pramac. Instead of continuing to develop one of the strongest bikes on the grid, the team will now work with a manufacturer that has struggled in recent seasons. Yamaha’s competitiveness has waned since its last MotoGP title, and while this partnership offers the Japanese brand a crucial second team, it also places significant responsibility on Pramac’s shoulders.

While immediate success is unlikely, the team is prepared for the process of rebuilding and contributing to Yamaha’s long-term project. The shift also signals a broader change in the MotoGP landscape, as manufacturers reassess their strategies to remain competitive against Ducati’s growing dominance.

Ducati and Pramac part ways on a high

Despite the split, Pramac leaves Ducati as one of its most successful satellite teams. The collaboration saw multiple race wins and a riders’ championship fight, with Pramac consistently proving its ability to develop top-tier talent. While the decision to leave was not taken lightly, both parties recognize that MotoGP is an evolving sport where change is sometimes necessary.

For Yamaha, securing a second team was a critical step in its rebuilding phase. Having another squad gathering data and helping to accelerate bike development could be crucial in narrowing the performance gap with Ducati and KTM.

As Pramac begins its new journey with Yamaha, questions remain about how quickly they can help turn the M1 into a competitive machine. The transition will require patience, but the team is determined to make an impact in this new chapter of its MotoGP history.