Toprak Razgatlioglu's move from Superbike to MotoGP is anything but a simple transfer. It's a clash of cultures, tires, and technical philosophies. And while his first laps in the premier class may have raised some doubts, one authoritative voice categorically refuses to see it as a foregone conclusion: that of Bradley Smith.
Even before the 2026 season, everything indicated that the three-time Superbike World Champion would take the plunge. Three world titles, won with Yamaha and BMWhave shaped a unique pilot. His commitment with Pramac Racing on a Yamaha Motor Company M1 It seemed like a natural progression. However, the preseason tests and the start of the campaign in Thailand were tough. A difficult adaptation, a lack of feel for the bike, a need to find the right balance. In short, a baptism of fire.
But for Smith, no room for pessimism.
Guest of podcast Racing Back, the former MotoGP rider — and ex-test rider BMW — has been in contact with Razgatlioglu closely followed his Superbike adventure. His verdict is clear: the Turk will eventually make his mark.
« I was very lucky to work with a pilot like Toprak; thanks to his piloting skills, he was able to overcome many problems; He doesn't need a perfect motorcycle »
Smith emphasizes a rare quality: adaptability. Where some demand a custom-made machine, Razgatlioglu composes, compensates, invents.
« It is very adaptable, and that's where BMW has done an excellent job: They gave him what he needed and what he wanted.Furthermore, the tires Pirelli allowed him to do it because they permit a significant slowdown in the last 50 meters before the apex. If I understand correctly, it's still very difficult to do with Michelin due to the nature of these tires »
Bradley Smith: When he's given what he needs, he'll start doing Toprak Razgatlioglu stuff »
Everything is there. In Superbike, the Pirelli favor an ultra-aggressive braking style. In MotoGP, the Michelin impose a different grammar. The braking at the Soil, spectacular and belated, needs to be rewritten. And that can't be done in one winter.
Smith remains categorical: " I am certain he will find the solution. but he needs the necessary toolsNo one is a magician. He's working with a new team leader who, little by little, will get to know him and understand his needs. »
In other words: the talent is intact. The human-machine connection simply needs to mature.
« When he's given what he needs, he'll start doing Toprak stuff. But for now, he's just like the rest of us. in search of that golden sensation he so desires »
This “golden sensation”, Razgatlioglu briefly touched her ThailandIn his very first MotoGP sprint race, he made an explosive start, leaping from 21st place to 15th by the first lap. Opportunistic, incisive, instinctive. Soil that we know.
But the learning curve was steep: with three laps to go, An engine braking problem trapped him in the last cornerFall. Premature end. No checkered flag.
However, beyond the raw result, the signal is there. He's already fighting in the group, second place. Yamaha behind his teammate Jack Millercapable of attacking despite a still imperfect package.
MotoGP offers no favors. It demands patience, precision, and constant technical evolution. But if we believe Bradley SmithThe question is not so Toprak Razgatlioglu It will succeed. Only when.
And the day the M1 finally speaks the dialect of RazgatliogluThe show could well take on a whole new dimension.
