Prima Pramac joins Yamaha in MotoGP with hopes for quick progress

Pramac begins a new MotoGP era with Yamaha, aiming for rapid competitiveness.

Miguel Oliveira of Portugal from Prima Pramac Yamaha (L) speaks with a team member during free practice 2 for the MotoGP Thailand Grand Prix at Buriram International Circuit in Buriram on March 1, 2025. Photo by Mohd Rasfan/AFP

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

Prima Pramac Racing has officially embarked on a new chapter in MotoGP, ending nearly two decades with Ducati to join forces with Yamaha. This partnership marks a significant shift for both the team and the Japanese manufacturer, which has struggled to remain competitive in recent seasons. While immediate success may not come overnight, Pramac owner Paolo Campinoti remains optimistic that progress will be faster than expected.

Speaking to Corriere della Sera, Campinoti highlighted the scale of the challenge but expressed confidence in Yamaha’s renewed commitment to MotoGP. The manufacturer has been working to bridge the performance gap and return to the front of the grid.

“It’s a big, important, and exciting challenge. I hope that in the short to medium term, the results come earlier than expected. We have already seen some signs: the Japanese are investing heavily. And we have also started with Moto2. This will give us even more strength going forward.”

Yamaha’s progress fuels Pramac’s optimism

When asked about the source of his optimism, Campinoti pointed to early signs of improvement, including Yamaha’s lap times and development strategies.

“From lap times, the gap has somewhat narrowed. And also from the methods, the resources. A company like Yamaha, which has always been a benchmark, cannot accept a secondary role. They will do everything to get back to the top.”

Yamaha’s recent investments in MotoGP technology, aerodynamics, and engine development suggest a renewed effort to reclaim its former dominance. This shift comes after seasons of struggling against European manufacturers like Ducati and Aprilia, who have led in innovation and performance gains.

Pramac’s MotoGP lineup and strategic approach

As part of this ambitious project, Pramac has assembled a strong rider lineup, including Jack Miller and Miguel Oliveira in MotoGP. Both riders bring valuable experience, with Miller previously racing for Pramac before moving to KTM and Oliveira demonstrating his skill across multiple manufacturers.

Additionally, Pramac’s involvement in Moto2 with Tony Arbolino and Izan Guevara is expected to strengthen its long-term development strategy. The move aligns with Yamaha’s broader vision of nurturing future MotoGP talent while improving its competitiveness in the premier class.

“We will be there with them, with Jack Miller, a rider we have had before. With Miguel Oliveira, who is ready. And with [Tony] Arbolino and [Izan] Guevara in Moto2,” Campinoti explained.

Yamaha’s determination to return to the top

For Yamaha, this partnership with Pramac represents more than just a satellite team agreement—it is a crucial step in its resurgence. After struggling with a less competitive bike in recent years, the manufacturer is making substantial investments to improve its aerodynamics, engine power, and overall race package.

The decision to bring Pramac into the Yamaha fold signals a shift in strategy, with the team playing a vital role in developing and refining the M1. This collaboration is expected to accelerate Yamaha’s progress by providing more data and feedback from experienced riders.

The road ahead for Pramac and Yamaha

While challenges remain, the outlook for Pramac and Yamaha is promising. The early signs of improvement suggest that the project is on the right path, but the true test will come once the 2025 MotoGP season gets underway.

For now, Campinoti remains hopeful that Yamaha’s aggressive development push will yield quicker-than-expected results. With a talented rider lineup and a strong technical program, Pramac and Yamaha are positioning themselves for a return to competitiveness in MotoGP.