Valentino Rossi, a legendary name in the MotoGP world, is a man who has written his name in gold letters, winning nine world championships. Although Rossi no longer races on the track, he hasn’t lost his passion for motorcycling or his interest in young talent. The Italian legend, who has attracted attention with his recent statements, stated that he wants Turkish rider Toprak Razgatlıoğlu to move to MotoGP and win championships alongside Marc Márquez. These words have excited both MotoGP and World Superbike (WSBK) fans.

When Valentino Rossi had the chance to see Toprak Razgatlıoğlu up close for the first time in 2021, he openly expressed his awe in the young Turkish rider’s riding style and potential. Toprak, who was competing in WSBK with Yamaha at the time, attracted attention with his aggressive yet controlled riding. Rossi had expressed his confidence in Toprak, saying, “Toprak is a very modern rider. He’s young, talented, and has incredible bike control. I think he can be fast in MotoGP as well.” Now, this admiration goes one step further: Rossi dreams of Toprak moving up to MotoGP, where he will have an unforgettable rivalry with Marc Márquez.

Toprak Razgatlıoğlu made Turkey proud by becoming WSBK World Champion in 2021 and 2024. His 2024 season with BMW was one of the brightest periods of his career. Toprak demonstrated his dominance on the track by breaking a record by winning 13 races in a row during the season. But according to Rossi, Toprak’s talent can also shine in the more technical and competitive world of MotoGP. “If Toprak and Marc were to compete together, it would be an incredible spectacle. They are both riders who push themselves to the limit. MotoGP needs that,” said Rossi.

Marc Márquez is considered one of Rossi’s greatest rivals, with eight MotoGP world titles to his name. Known for his aggressive riding style, incredible reflexes, and risk-taking nature, Márquez shares some similarities with Toprak. Both riders have a style that puts pressure on their opponents on the track and aren’t afraid to make bold moves. But Toprak’s calm yet determined stance in WSBK contrasts with Márquez’s more explosive energy. Rossi believes these differences could create a perfect harmony in MotoGP.

“Clay can be fluid and elegant like Valentino, but it can also be brutal like Marc,” said former MotoGP rider Danilo Petrucci, who supports Rossi’s vision. Rossi predicts that with the combination of these two talents, MotoGP could experience one of its golden eras. Marc is already a legend, but Toprak can challenge him. He will revitalize the sport, he added.

Toprak Razgatlıoğlu’s transition to MotoGP has been a topic of discussion for years. He tested with Yamaha in 2022 but chose to stay in WSBK at the time. His manager, Kenan Sofuoğlu, stated that Toprak’s priority was to make history in Turkish motorcycling and that his goal was the WSBK championship. After achieving this goal, the door to MotoGP was always open. Toprak, whose name is frequently mentioned by MotoGP teams for the 2026 season, appears to be one step closer to this dream with Rossi’s support.

However, Toprak’s transition to MotoGP may not be easy. Adapting to Michelin tires, getting used to the different dynamics of the bike in WSBK, and facing experienced rivals like Márquez are the challenges ahead. Still, Rossi believes Toprak is capable of overcoming these obstacles. “He’s very young and open to learning. After a few races in MotoGP, he can surprise everyone,” he said.

Toprak’s move to MotoGP could be a turning point not only for his career, but also for Turkish motorcycling. After Kenan Sofuoğlu’s successes in Supersport, Toprak took up the flag in WSBK. Now, a Turkish rider fighting for the MotoGP championship could be an inspiration to younger generations. This insight from Rossi could further increase Toprak’s influence internationally.

That’s why Valentino Rossi’s dream of seeing Toprak Razgatlıoğlu and Marc Márquez together in MotoGP is already exciting motorcycling fans. If Toprak’s talent, Márquez’s experience, and Rossi’s support combine, a new MotoGP legend could be born. Will this dream come true? Time will tell. But one thing is certain: Toprak Razgatlıoğlu remains one of the brightest stars in the history of Turkish sport.