Spanish Rider Sets New Ducati Direction

Yamaha Xavi Vierge's partnership has ended, and it has been announced that the Spanish factory rider will cease participation in races starting from the 2027 season. This decision in the World Superbike Championship (WSBK) transfer market means that the Spanish rider's one-year contract was not renewed.

Reasons for the Departure

Team Principal Paul Denning of Pata-Maxus stated that the decision to separate was not due to the rider's performance or personality. Denning conveyed the team's perspective with the following words:

In their words

Speaking on behalf of myself – and on behalf of every team member – it is extremely disappointing that we will not be able to continue our partnership with Xavi in the 2027 season. We are losing not just an exceptional competitor, but a truly special person due to Xavi's quick adaptation to the R1, his immense speed, courage, and technical grasp.

The 29-year-old rider, who spent four years under the Honda umbrella before joining Yamaha, adapted flawlessly to the team. Regarding this departure, Denning emphasized Xavi's professionalism:

In their words

It is rare for someone to be loved and respected by everyone they meet to this degree. However, Xavi separates himself immediately with his extraordinary professionalism, honesty, and respect toward his job and those around him. We wholeheartedly offer our best wishes to him and confirm that our team's door is always open for future opportunities. Go Xavi, and thank you.

Future Plans and Competitive Machines

The underlying reason for the split stems directly from moves on the MotoGP grid. Yamaha management wanted to present a future plan for Pramac rider Jack Miller in the World Superbike Championship. The only rider whose contract had expired on the current roster was Vierge.

The Spanish rider's future looks secure. The Spanish racer, preparing to replace Alvaro Bautista, is in the contract signing phase with the Barni Racing Ducati team. In this transition, Vierge will no longer compete in a factory rider status in 2027. In his place, he will have a more competitive machine such as the Ducati V4R.