Alex Rins has rejected a World Superbike move in favour of switching to four-wheel competition following his departure from the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP team.
The 30-year-old will depart the premier class at the end of 2026, marking a complete exit from motorcycle racing after a 14-year grand prix career.
While contemporaries Jack Miller and Brad Binder recently accepted Superbike transfers, Rins turned down concrete interest from the WorldSBK paddock.
His choice underscores a shifting prestige dynamic, as top-tier riders increasingly view sports car projects as a more viable long-term refuge than production-based series.
WorldSBK Loses Appeal For MotoGP Talent
Speaking via Crash.net, the six-time race winner confirmed his departure. “I will not go to Superbike next year,” Alex Rins said.
“As I told you some races ago, I have a good, really interesting project in mind that I can’t reveal because it’s not done 100%.”
The WorldSBK grid is undergoing a significant shuffle, highlighted as Nicolo Bulega secures a MotoGP seat.
In contrast, Rins was heavily linked with GoEleven Ducati before selecting an undisclosed four-wheel future.
The Race reported that the Spanish rider acknowledged the concrete Superbike offers. “I had two possibilities there,” Rins noted, adding “that I really say thanks to them because they were quite interested in me.”
His transition to car racing highlights a growing crossover appeal across motorsport disciplines, occurring as Formula 1 prepares for Madrid’s gruelling street circuit layout.
Rins will resume his final MotoGP campaign with Yamaha at the upcoming Misano round.
