Pramac does not anticipate Yamaha fighting at the front right away when MotoGP enters its 850cc era, but the team is confident the Japanese manufacturer can reduce the deficit by the conclusion of the 2027 season. As reported by Motorsport.com, the new technical rules coming into effect offer a clean-slate opportunity following Yamaha’s recent struggles at the bottom of the competitive order.
New Regulations and the V4 Challenge
The upcoming rule changes encompass engine displacement reductions, aerodynamic modifications, ride-height device adjustments, and a new tyre supplier, forcing all manufacturers to invest heavily in fresh designs. Yamaha is carrying its V4 engine configuration into the 2027 season as engine capacity drops from 1000cc to 850cc, following a shift away from its previous inline-four motor.
Pramac team manager Gino Borsoi explained to Motorsport.com that the upcoming campaign presents a major opportunity because everyone starts from zero with new regulations and motorcycles. Borsoi noted that the team learned a great deal during the current season with the V4 engine and hopes to begin the next phase with better speed, though the form of competing factories remains unknown.
Borsoi added that closing the gap to other manufacturers is the primary target for the project, acknowledging that while immediate success is unlikely, progress can be made throughout the season.
Evaluating Prototype Performance and Power Deficits
Yamaha gained an early look at its 2027 prototype against rivals during an official Pirelli test at the Red Bull Ring in September. Based on that session, Pramac believes outright engine power will remain a weakness for Yamaha as the manufacturer continues to build its understanding of V4 power units.
Borsoi pointed out that the track layout in Austria highlighted high demands on engine performance where the team still struggles, but noted that Yamaha is working diligently on the issue. Borsoi stated that he hopes for a small step forward during the winter tests and expects a real performance leap from the middle to the end of the season.
Pramac is playing a key partnership role in helping Yamaha prepare for the new regulations after transitioning from Ducati. Borsoi expressed enthusiasm for being part of the project, mentioning plans to travel to Japan to collect feedback and noting that recent tests involving riders like Izan Guevara yielded surprisingly positive results.
