Marcos Ramirez joins the QJMOTOR factory racing team for 2026
A New Era Beckons: Marcos Ramirez Joins the QJMOTOR WorldSSP Factory Team for 2026
The World Supersport (WorldSSP) paddock is buzzing with anticipation as the QJMOTOR Factory Racing Team confirms an all-star line-up for the 2026 season, welcoming Spanish talent Marcos Ramirez to ride alongside the experienced Italian, Raffaele De Rosa.
This powerful pairing signals a major statement of intent from the Chinese manufacturer as they push their promising new machine, the SRK 800 RS, to the very top echelon of middleweight racing.
From Grand Prix to WorldSSP: Ramirez’s New Challenge
Marcos Ramirez, a former Grand Prix race winner and podium finisher in both Moto3 and Moto2, makes the high-profile switch to the World Superbike paddock, marking a significant new chapter in his already impressive career.
After a sudden departure from the Grand Prix scene, the 28-year-old Spaniard is trading prototypes for production-based racing, bringing with him a wealth of high-level experience and a reputation for fierce determination. His two Grand Prix victories and multiple podiums across the two classes demonstrate a raw speed and race-craft that will undoubtedly shake up the WorldSSP grid.
"I am thrilled to start this new season with the QJMOTOR Factory Racing Team! I am joining a new and ambitious project, and I am highly motivated and can't wait to start working with my new team and get to know the SRK 800 RS. An important winter preparation awaits us to tackle the 2026 WorldSSP in the best possible way," said Ramirez.
The Veteran's Vision: De Rosa’s Continued Commitment
Confirming his place for the 2026 campaign is the fan-favourite and former FIM Superstock 1000 Cup winner, Raffaele De Rosa. The Italian veteran has been instrumental in the development of the QJMOTOR project since its inception, guiding the team and the new SRK 800 RS through its crucial introductory seasons.
De Rosa’s technical feedback and tireless work ethic will be the perfect foil for Ramirez’s youthful speed. The stability provided by his re-signing, combined with his consistently improving results throughout 2025 (often battling for Top 10 positions), provides a solid foundation for the team's ambitious targets.
"After a very positive end to the 2025 season, with increasingly better results that often saw us in the top ten and significantly reduced the gap that separated us from the leaders, I think all the conditions are there to renew my commitment... After the retirement of Niki Tuuli, I think the best choice has been made, and I welcome a high-level rider like Marcos Ramirez. I look forward to having him alongside me, as I am sure he can make a great contribution to our team and the development of the SRK 800 RS," commented De Rosa.
The Machine: Pushing the SRK 800 RS to the Limit
The focus for 2026 will be to unlock the full potential of the new QJMOTOR SRK 800 RS. The Chinese manufacturer has already made significant strides in their WorldSSP campaign, and the new bike is a clear sign of their long-term commitment.
With a rider pairing that boasts both Grand Prix pedigree and WorldSSP experience, QJMOTOR is fully equipped to challenge the established guard. The riders are scheduled for extensive winter testing, including wind tunnel sessions, to fine-tune the machine for the season opener.
? Looking Ahead
The 2026 World Supersport Championship is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory. The arrival of Marcos Ramirez alongside the proven talent of Raffaele De Rosa elevates the QJMOTOR Factory Racing Team into serious contenders.
Keep your eyes peeled for the QJMOTOR duo when the lights go out in 2026—this new era promises speed, skill, and some thrilling battles!
