In the fast-paced world of MotoGP, riders often face challenges that test their mettle both on and off the track. One rider who has experienced a rollercoaster journey in recent seasons is Spanish rider Augusto Fernandez. Known for his resilience and determination, Fernandez has made headlines recently by expressing his confidence in making a full comeback to the MotoGP grid in the near future. After a difficult 2024 season, where he struggled for competitiveness aboard the GasGas-branded KTM RC16, Fernandez’s MotoGP future seemed uncertain. However, in an exclusive interview, Fernandez boldly declared, “I am 100% sure I will return to the MotoGP grid.”
Fernandez MotoGP Comeback: A Season of Struggles
Augusto Fernandez’s second year with KTM’s satellite team proved to be a difficult one. After a promising rookie season, where he managed to score 71 points and finish in the midfield, Fernandez’s performance in 2024 took a significant downturn. In a field of 22 riders, Fernandez finished 20th, accumulating only 27 points over the course of the season. This marked a sharp contrast to his debut year, where expectations were higher, and the results were more encouraging.
Reflecting on the challenging 2024 season, Fernandez admitted that he struggled to find the right setup and balance on the bike. “This is not how it was meant to be,” Fernandez lamented. Despite his efforts, he was unable to reach a point where he felt competitive on the GasGas RC16. The Spanish rider pointed out that the bike simply didn’t suit his riding style, which was a contributing factor to his struggles. “Maybe the bike wasn’t my style, but I tried to adapt,” Fernandez explained. “Maybe I should change my riding style.”
Despite these setbacks, Fernandez remained determined to turn things around. He acknowledged the frustration of not being competitive, saying, “Of course it’s frustrating, so I’m angry about what happened.” His performance in 2024 led to KTM making the decision to drop him from their MotoGP roster, a move that left many in the paddock surprised. KTM decided to make a change, reassigning Fernandez as a Yamaha test rider for the upcoming seasons, signaling a new chapter in his career.
The Transition to Yamaha: A New Beginning
While the decision to step away from a racing role in MotoGP was undoubtedly disappointing for Fernandez, it also opened the door for a new opportunity. Yamaha, a team that has been experiencing its own set of challenges, made the move to bring the Spanish rider into its fold as a test rider. Fernandez’s new role as a Yamaha test rider has been the subject of speculation for several months, but the Japanese manufacturer officially confirmed the move earlier this year.
For Fernandez, this new role with Yamaha presents an opportunity to rebuild his confidence and demonstrate his abilities in a different environment. “My career is progressing differently than I expected, but it is progressing,” Fernandez remarked, acknowledging the unexpected turn his journey had taken. As a test rider, he would not be racing in MotoGP but would play a crucial role in helping develop Yamaha’s future bikes and test new technologies. While test riders rarely get the same media attention as full-time race riders, Fernandez sees this as a vital step in his long-term goal: returning to the MotoGP grid.
Fernandez MotoGP Comeback: A Sure Bet for the Future
Despite the setback of not being able to adapt to the KTM RC16 in 2024, Fernandez remains confident that he will be back in MotoGP racing in the near future. “I will be back, I am 100% sure of that,” Fernandez boldly declared. His optimism is rooted in his belief that his skills have not been diminished by his struggles in the previous season. Fernandez is determined to use his time as a test rider to refine his skills and adapt to new machines. “That’s why I continue to work and look forward to the next step in my career,” he explained.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Fernandez’s future plans is the challenge of making a successful MotoGP comeback after spending time as a test rider. Test riders typically play a crucial role in the development of new bikes, but it is rare for a test rider to return to racing competitively. Fernandez acknowledges that his return will be different from the usual trajectory of most riders. “Of course, it will be a different situation because we have never seen a test driver come back competitively,” he said. “It is not usual, but I will manage it.” This sense of determination and belief in his own abilities is a testament to Fernandez’s mindset and work ethic. His goal is clear: to return to MotoGP and prove that he still has what it takes to be a competitive force in the sport.
The Mental Toughness Behind Fernandez MotoGP Comeback
One of the key factors in Fernandez’s confidence about his MotoGP comeback is his mental fortitude. MotoGP riders face immense pressure, not only to perform on the track but also to maintain their focus and motivation during tough times. After a disappointing season in 2024, where many expected Fernandez to continue his progress, it would have been easy for the Spanish rider to lose faith in his abilities. Instead, Fernandez took a proactive approach, acknowledging the challenges and working towards overcoming them.
“I will work hard and continue learning, because I believe in myself,” Fernandez said, emphasizing his determination to bounce back. For Fernandez, it’s not just about the physical aspects of riding a MotoGP bike; it’s also about the mental resilience required to stay focused and push through difficult times. As he prepares for his role as a Yamaha test rider, Fernandez is also preparing himself mentally for his eventual return to the grid. “I know what I am capable of, and I am determined to show that,” he added.
Fernandez MotoGP Comeback: Building a Stronger Future
As Fernandez embarks on his journey as a test rider with Yamaha, it’s clear that he is not giving up on his dream of returning to the MotoGP grid. His commitment to improving his riding style and working on his mental strength are essential steps toward a successful comeback. Fernandez knows that the road ahead won’t be easy, but he is fully prepared to face whatever challenges come his way.
For Yamaha, having a rider with Fernandez’s experience and determination is a valuable asset. As a test rider, Fernandez will be at the forefront of developing Yamaha’s future machines, contributing to the team’s ongoing efforts to remain competitive in MotoGP. However, Fernandez’s long-term goal is clear: to return to the grid and race at the highest level once again. His determination and belief in his abilities are what set him apart from many other riders, and they are the driving forces behind his quest for a MotoGP comeback.
The Path Ahead: Fernandez’s Road to a Successful MotoGP Comeback
As the MotoGP paddock continues to evolve, riders like Fernandez are determined to carve their own paths to success. Fernandez’s story is one of resilience, and his unwavering confidence in his MotoGP comeback speaks to the strength of his character. Although 2024 did not go as planned, Fernandez remains focused on the future, where he hopes to once again showcase his talents on the biggest stage in motorcycle racing.
With his move to Yamaha as a test rider, Fernandez has taken a crucial step toward rebuilding his career. It may take time, and the road to recovery will not be without its challenges, but Fernandez is confident in his ability to return to the grid. “I am 100% sure I will return to the MotoGP grid,” he said, underscoring his unwavering belief that his best days are still ahead of him.
In the ever-competitive world of MotoGP, where new talent is always emerging, Fernandez’s determination to make a successful return is a testament to the drive and passion that defines the sport. Whether it’s on a Yamaha or another machine, Fernandez’s MotoGP comeback is one that fans and insiders alike are eagerly anticipating. His journey is far from over, and if his confidence and work ethic are any indication, the best is yet to come.
Augusto Fernandez, Yamaha Racing
