In a surprising move in the WorldSBK paddock, the Motoxracing Yamaha team has announced a rider change for the final three rounds of the 2026 season. Bahattin Sofuoglu, who has been with the team since the start of the year, will depart early, making way for young Dutch rider Twan Smits, who previously wildcarded at Assen with Team Apreco.
The timing is critical, as WorldSBK heads to Cremona for the third-to-last round. While much of the focus will be on Nicolo Bulega, who could mathematically clinch the title, the change at Motoxracing adds another layer of intrigue. The team, the only non-factory-supported Yamaha on the grid, is making a strategic move to finish the season strongly.
Sofuoglu is no stranger to success, having won in World Supersport with MV Agusta. He spent two seasons with Motoxracing in WorldSBK, partnering Mattia Rato this year. However, consistent results proved elusive. Now, Sofuoglu returns to World Supersport, joining QJ Motor on the SRK 800 RS from Cremona onwards.
For Smits, this is a golden opportunity. The young rider impressed as a wildcard at Assen, finishing 21st in Race 1 and the Superpole Race, and 22nd in Race 2. Though he didn't score points, his performance caught the eye of Motoxracing. This will be his first full-time ride in WorldSBK, a significant step in his career.
Smits will partner Rato, whose position remains unchanged. The new lineup aims to inject fresh energy into Motoxracing, which faces the challenge of competing against better-funded teams. Yet, determination and spirit can go a long way.
For Sofuoglu, the switch to World Supersport is not a step back. He has proven his speed at the highest level, and returning to a class where he has won before could help him rebuild momentum. QJ Motor, developing the SRK 800 RS, will benefit from his experience.
Meanwhile, all eyes remain on Bulega at Cremona. If he secures the necessary results, he could wrap up the title early. But with fierce competition in WorldSBK this season, nothing is certain until the chequered flag falls. The Motoxracing change adds another storyline to an already thrilling Italian round.
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