Imagine being a six-time MotoGP champion, only to find yourself feeling utterly helpless on the track. That's the harsh reality for Alex Rins, who has openly admitted to feeling 'powerless' amidst Yamaha's recent struggles. But here's where it gets controversial: is it the rider or the machine that's holding Yamaha back? Let's dive in.
After a challenging 2023 season with LCR Honda, marked by injuries but highlighted by a stunning victory at the Americas Grand Prix, Rins made the switch to Yamaha in 2024. Fans and critics alike expected a resurgence, but the results have been underwhelming. Despite his undeniable talent, Rins has yet to grace the podium, with a seventh-place finish at the Australian Grand Prix being his best result this year. And this is the part most people miss: it's not just Rins who's struggling—it's the entire Yamaha team.
At the Indonesian Grand Prix, Rins showed glimpses of his former self, battling for a podium position before finishing 10th due to tire wear. By the end of the 2025 campaign, he placed 19th with 68 points, a staggering 133 points behind his factory teammate, Fabio Quartararo. Quartararo, who secured a Grand Prix podium and two sprint rostrums, seemed to be the only Yamaha rider consistently delivering results. But is Quartararo simply better, or does he have an edge the others don't?
Rins, along with his teammates Jack Miller and Miguel Oliveira, has defended their abilities, insisting they 'haven’t forgotten how to ride.' During the Valencia Grand Prix weekend, Rins expressed his frustration: 'It’s difficult to accept how things are going for us. On the bike, I feel quite powerless, unable to do what I want.' He highlighted instances, like in Indonesia, where he briefly shone before being held back by the bike's limitations. 'It’s not the first time Quartararo has been the only one to get more out of the bike,' Rins noted. 'I don’t know if it’s because the bike is tailored more for him or if it’s his confidence after so many years. He’s mastered it, but Oliveira, Miller, and I haven’t lost our skills.'
Yamaha's decision to retire its inline-four engine in favor of a new V4 for the upcoming season has raised eyebrows. The Japanese manufacturer has warned that the first half of the campaign will focus on development rather than results. But will this be enough to level the playing field for riders like Rins?
As we look ahead, the question remains: Can Yamaha's new engine turn the tide, or will the struggles persist? And more importantly, is the issue with the riders or the machine? What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a debate!
