Yamaha’s new MotoGP chief, Paolo Pavesio, has set a clear goal for his team: consistent fighting for top-five positions after the summer break of the 2025 season.

Taking over Yamaha Factory Racing at the start of the year, Pavesio has already seen an impressive pre-season test at Sepang. Fabio Quartararo made a confident statement by securing third place, as he showed impressive improvement in pace. Despite the optimism, Pavesio remains cautious, as he prefers more optimistic yet realistic goals rather than unrealistic promises.

Realistic Expectations

The team now shifts focus to this week’s pre-season test in Buriram, a track that is known for its lower grip levels, making it a better benchmark for real performance than Sepang.

“Our goal is to close the gap to the top teams,” Pavesio explained. “We’re making progress, and the stopwatch proves it. But the competition isn’t standing still. The key is figuring out how much we can improve compared to them and how quickly we can do it.”

When asked about Yamaha’s chances of winning the MotoGP title in 2025, Pavesio was refreshingly honest. “Winning the title next year? No, that would be unrealistic. If you set impossible goals, you only create frustration. Instead, we aim to establish ourselves in the top five by mid-season. First, we need to beat Aprilia and KTM.”

Pavesio credits Takahiro Sumi, Yamaha’s MotoGP project leader, for driving the team’s shift in approach. He also acknowledged the smooth transition of new satellite team Pramac, a partnership that began promisingly.

A New Era

Pavesio’s leadership follows a major transition within Yamaha. Longtime racing director Lin Jarvis announced his departure in April 2024, ending a 26-year tenure. Pavesio was appointed to lead the team’s renewed strategy to push for the MotoGP title.

“When I took this role, I knew Yamaha wanted to step up its game in MotoGP,” Pavesio said. “What excited me most was the idea of bringing together people from different backgrounds and cultures to work towards a common goal.”

With renewed energy and a clear plan, Yamaha is preparing for a competitive 2025 season, determined to reclaim its place among the elite.