Ten Kate Racing Ended Yamaha Partnership
The racing team has transitioned to a new agreement with Chinese manufacturer QJ for the upcoming season.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Motocycles
Live Poll
Do you believe partnerships with international manufacturers improve the competitiveness of local racing teams?
Ten Kate Racing has officially concluded its partnership with Yamaha. The team will shift its operations to a new deal with Chinese motorcycle manufacturer QJ.
Why it matters
The move follows a demand for project exclusivity from Ten Kate Racing as it reorganizes its competitive efforts. The team currently fields riders Okamoto and Öncü in the Supersport series.
Ten Kate Racing has set 2027 as the target year to fully integrate its new machinery into top-level competition. This shift aligns with the manufacturer's goal to challenge existing rivals in the category.
The players
Ten Kate Racing
This professional motorcycle racing team manages competitive entries in the Supersport series.
QJ
This Chinese motorcycle manufacturer is expanding its footprint in international racing competition.
Yamaha
This global manufacturer produces a wide range of motorcycles and has been a primary partner for various racing teams.
Can Öncü
A professional motorcycle racer currently competing under the Ten Kate Racing banner.
The details
Can Öncü tested the QJ SRK800 motorcycle on a recent Sunday morning at the Cremona circuit. The team, which previously operated under a Yamaha banner, is now moving toward a future centered on the QJ platform.
Timeline
Evan Bros parted ways with Yamaha in 2025.
Ten Kate announced its departure from Yamaha in October 2026.
QJ aims to compete against industry rivals in 2027.
Roadmap
This transition reflects a broader shift in the Supersport arena as teams seek new exclusivity agreements with emerging international brands. By aligning with QJ, Ten Kate Racing joins other teams in repositioning their technical development against established market incumbents.
Supporters of the team will see a change in branding and technical infrastructure starting in the next season. The transition signifies a new operational direction that will determine the team's capabilities on the track.
The takeaway
Team management decisions continue to reshape the competitive dynamics of international motorcycle racing. Industry participants must adapt to these shifting alliances as teams prioritize proprietary technical development.
Further reading
For more on the current industry landscape, visit the Motorcycles section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by GPone.
Live Poll
Do you believe partnerships with international manufacturers improve the competitiveness of local racing teams?
