High-profile team switch yields renewed focus for 2026 season.
Four-time MXGP champion Tim Gajser has outlined his ambition to deliver Yamaha a premier class world championship in 2026, targeting title success with the Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP team following a high-profile switch from Honda HRC.
The Slovenian had been Honda’s marque rider for over a decade, earning all four of his MXGP titles (2016, 2019, 2020, 2022) and an MX2 crown in 2015 with the storied Japanese manufacturer.
In a significant silly-season shake-up, Gajser transferred to Yamaha for this season, aiming to make an immediate impact as the world championship season gets underway in Argentina on March 7-8.
“I’m really excited,” Gajser explained. “I’m in good shape, I’m feeling good, and I’m really looking forward to the season. We’ve put in a lot of work this month and done as much as we can – more time would help, but this is how it is.
“My goals for this season – obviously, I want to do well. Being healthy and at every round is important, and consistency is key, without those, being world champion is almost impossible. I really want to win and bring the title home to Yamaha. I will do everything I can, and I’m looking forward to seeing what this year brings.”
Gajser made his first appearance with Yamaha at the opening round of the Internazionali d’Italia Motocross in Alghero, Italy, on Sunday, recording 5-2 finishes to secure P2 overall behind Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Lucas Coenen after he claimed victory in both motos.

