Pata Maxus Yamaha rider Andrea Locatelli has admitted he is aiming “to be on the podium every weekend” ahead of the 2026 WorldSBK season.
The factory Yamaha squad officially launched its team colours on Monday, with Locatelli joined by new team-mate Xavi Vierge for the first time.
After a challenging 2024, Yamaha returned to some level of form in 2025 – scoring three podiums alongside a first ever WorldSBK victory for Locatelli in Assen.
Following a strong season, Locatelli enters 2026 with a newfound confidence while insisting that he and Vierge will “push each other” to the limits of the R1 machine.
“We know it is not always easy,” Locatelli said to WorldSBK.com.
“Every year, our competitors work hard, and we have to respond by doing our very best at all races, in all conditions.
“It’s already been a long time since I started working with Yamaha, and I know the R1 WorldSBK inside and out, its strengths and the areas we are focused on improving to take another step forward.
“I have a new teammate, Xavi, and we will push each other to maximise and improve the package and try to improve ourselves as well.”
The Italian rider also set targets for the new season, and admitted its realistic to challenge for the top three in the standings in 2026.
“It will be a long season with many opportunities,” Locatelli said.
“The target will be to fight for the victories and aim to be on the podium every weekend.
“We were close to third in the Championship last year, so the goal can only be the top three.”
Xavi Vierge: ‘We just need more time’ to adapt to Yamaha WorldSBK
Before the new season starts, Yamaha will complete a further test at Phillip Island, after already having two-day tests in Jerez and Portimao across January.
Yamaha started 2026 with testing in Jerez on 21st and 22nd January, but saw its plans scuppered by adverse weather conditions.
Vierge admitted he had been unable to establish a setup due to the rain, but suggested they had already found a good feeling in his first test back in October.
The Spaniard also suggested the Yamaha R1 package suits his natural riding style, but suggested only time will tell with regards to results.
“Since the beginning, I’ve felt like the bike fits my riding style well, especially in wet conditions.
“I feel a lot of progress from last year, and we’re showing good race pace. It’s been really nice working with the team.
“I feel like everyone is very professional, and I’ve felt momentum growing from the very beginning.
“We just need more time, we need to see how the bike and I perform on different tracks, but the first impressions have been very good.”
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