Fabio Quartararo’s departure from the factory Yamaha MotoGP team has been confirmed by the Iwata factory.

Quartararo has been expected to leave Yamaha since the 2026 MotoGP preseason, when it was first reported that he was negotiating a deal with Honda for the 2027 season.

Quartararo’s HRC deal is not yet official, but Yamaha has confirmed that the Frenchman – as well as his current teammate Alex Rins – will not be riding for the Iwata marque in MotoGP next season, ending a collaboration that began in 2019 and brought a world title to Yamaha in 2021.

“Fabio [Quartararo] and Alex [Rins] have both played an important role in Yamaha's MotoGP project, and we are very grateful for their efforts, dedication, and collaboration over the years,” said Yamaha Motor Racing managing director Paolo Pavesio.

“Fabio's journey with Yamaha spans eight years, during which we have shared both great successes and difficult moments. 

“Together, we have grown, celebrated achievements that have shaped our story, and faced challenges that have strengthened us. 

“Beyond the results, it is this journey that defines our relationship, and in the end, Fabio will always remain one of the true legends of Yamaha MotoGP.

“Since joining Yamaha in 2024, Alex has brought valuable experience, meaningful insight, and unwavering commitment, playing an important role in the YZR-M1 project's development.

“While saying goodbye is never easy after years together, we remain fully focused on working as a team to achieve the best possible results until the end of the season.”

Yamaha is thought to have signed Jorge Martin and Ai Ogura for its factory team in 2027, although these deals are yet to be confirmed.