Yamaha Motor Europe is thrilled to announce the landmark signing of five-time FIM Motocross World Champion Tim Gajser, who will join the Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP team for the 2026 MXGP season and beyond.

The 29-year-old Slovenian will campaign a factory YZ450FM alongside Maxime Renaux, forming one of the strongest rider lineups in recent history. Gajser brings a staggering record of success and experience to the Yamaha family, having already established himself as one of the most decorated riders of his generation. His résumé features five FIM Motocross World Titles, with 97 race wins and 52 Grand Prix victories contributing to a remarkable total of 125 podium finishes.

Gajser’s career is a testament to his exceptional pedigree. After a dominant ascent through the European ranks, he clinched the MX2 World Title in 2015. He made history the very next year, stepping up to the premier MXGP class to win the World Championship as a rookie—becoming the only rider to secure back-to-back MX2 and MXGP titles in less than 12 months.

Known as ‘Tiga’ to his fans, Tiga solidified his elite status with back-to-back MXGP crowns in 2019-2020 and a fifth world title in 2022. After securing a runner-up finish in 2024, he continued his relentless form by starting the 2025 season with breathtaking speed. The Slovenian ace built a commanding lead with three Grand Prix wins and a 100% podium record before a fall at round six halted his charge. In a clear display of his dominance, he still held the championship lead for 10 rounds even while sidelined.

Now fully recovered and with his sights firmly set on the future, Gajser is more motivated than ever. He joins Yamaha with a clear objective: to add more world titles to his legacy.

"I’m really excited to join the Yamaha family. After more than a decade with the same brand, it's exciting to be entering a new chapter in 2026, and a change like this brings fresh motivation. I can't wait to get on the new bike! My first priority will be getting comfortable with it as quickly as possible. Not being able to ride until the new year gives us limited time to prepare—but honestly, I’m looking forward to the challenge. Once the season begins, the most important thing is to stay healthy, be in good shape, and enjoy the racing. I'm ready to give it my all and hope we can fight for the title.”

— Tim Gajser, Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP rider

“We are delighted to welcome Tim to the Yamaha Family. A rider of his calibre brings not only a legacy of success but also an unparalleled level of professionalism and dedication to his craft. His arrival brings a welcomed surge of energy and motivation. It represents an exciting new chapter for everyone involved. We are confident we can provide Tim with the ultimate platform in the YZ450FM and the Monster Energy Yamaha Factory team to pursue our shared goal of securing another FIM Motocross World Championship.”

— Alexandre Kowalski, Yamaha Motor Europe Off-Road Racing Manager