Quartararo Still Keen to Sample F1 Car After Mercedes Test Fell Through

Fabio Quartararo says he remains eager to test a Formula 1 car, reviving hopes for a crossover that stalled when a planned Mercedes run failed to materialize after his 2021 MotoGP title win. The Frenchman recently attended the Barcelona Grand Prix and opened up about his past simulator work at Mercedes, where he came within 2.2 seconds of Valtteri Bottas' time over 60 laps at Silverstone.

Why it matters:

Quartararo's potential F1 outing underscores the enduring appeal of grand prix racing for motorcycle world champions, following the precedent set by Valentino Rossi's legendary 2019 swap with Lewis Hamilton. A successful test would not only capture global attention but also carry significant commercial weight, given that Yamaha and Mercedes previously shared lead sponsors Monster Energy and Petronas. His simulator performance suggests the 27-year-old has enough raw pace to make the transition credible rather than purely symbolic.

The details:

• Quartararo was scheduled to drive one of Mercedes' title-winning cars in a private test at the end of 2022, but the deal collapsed before it could happen.
• Ahead of the planned session, he visited Mercedes' Brackley headquarters and completed 60 laps of Silverstone in the simulator, finishing just 2.2 seconds off Bottas' benchmark.
• During his recent visit to the Spanish Grand Prix, Quartararo highlighted the stark contrast between the F1 and MotoGP paddocks, describing Formula 1 as "much more exclusive" and far less crowded.
• He noted the relaxed atmosphere allowed him to chat casually with Lando Norris in the middle of the paddock, a rarity compared to the hectic, scooter-filled environment of MotoGP.

What's next:

Despite the earlier setback, Quartararo has made it clear that an F1 test remains an unfulfilled ambition he intends to pursue. Organizing a session around his Yamaha MotoGP commitments during the 2026 season presents a logistical challenge, but his continued interest keeps the possibility alive. If a deal can be struck, it would mark a rare and highly anticipated collaboration between a reigning motorcycle superstar and the pinnacle of four-wheeled motorsport.