Augusto Fernandez participated as a wildcard at Brno but couldn’t add to his six MotoGP points this season, finishing last in 18th place after serving a long lap penalty for a collision with Takaaki Nakagami. Despite this, Fernandez was encouraged by his race pace, posting faster laps than two of the five Yamahas on the track, including Miguel Oliveira and Jack Miller, and matching Alex Rins. He acknowledged he was still half a second behind Fabio Quartararo but felt positive about regaining race rhythm and gathering data, before heading back to testing in Barcelona.
The upcoming tests are expected to include runs on Yamaha’s V4 prototype, which Factory Star Fabio Quartararo suggested could address current braking issues. Quartararo noted that while rival V4 engines use rear tires to assist in braking, Yamaha’s approach relies solely on front braking. Fernandez emphasized their focus on avoiding typical V4 problems but admitted they still have work to do to push the V4 to its limits. Jack Miller also experienced unintended stoppies during the Czech GP, highlighting the challenges of the V4 setup, especially with the current tires relying heavily on both tires to stop the bike.
Yamaha has yet to confirm if the V4 will replace their 2026 Inline 4 engine, but Fernandez revealed that efforts have shifted strongly toward developing the new V4. He described the machine as an early project with an imperfect engine and a first-generation chassis, though promising and visually appealing. Performance isn’t fully there yet, but upcoming summer tests could speed up progress ahead of the season’s end. The V4 engine hasn’t been run at full power to date, which limits lap times, but Yamaha is optimistic about its potential.
Fernandez feels good riding the V4, noting it’s very different from the current M1 and offers greater possibilities. While he hasn’t forgotten the M1, the Yamaha team is largely focused on the V4 as the M1 project winds down. Bringing valuable experience from KTM’s V4 MotoGP tenure, Fernandez also benefits from insights from test rider Andrea Dovizioso, who has experience with Honda, Ducati, and Aprilia V4s. Yamaha is taking a unique path with their V4 design, distinct from competitors.
The next few months are critical for Yamaha’s 2026 engine decision and whether Fernandez will be allowed to race the V4 as a wildcard before the season concludes.
Fan Take: This update is exciting for Racing fans because it hints at a technological shift with Yamaha’s V4 prototype potentially shaking up the competitive landscape. Seeing a factory team innovate and push boundaries could lead to thrilling battles and advancements in MotoGP, keeping the sport dynamic and unpredictable.
