Some will see it as a precursor or preliminaries with a view to a more general rapprochement in MotoGP, such as the VR46 team becoming the Yamaha satellite team, a daydream for Lin Jarvis, but a prospect subject to the imperative of the result by Valentino Rossi. What is it about ? This agreement signed between Yamaha and Valentino Rosi as part of the last Spanish Grand Prix making the latter an official ambassador of the former. The Doctor therefore did not go to Jerez only to support his troops in MotoGP…
On the occasion of Spanish Grand Prix, the fourth stage of the 2023 World Championship, which took place on the Jerez circuit, Valentino Rossi was named brand ambassador for Yamaha . The Doctor signed a multi-year contract to fulfill this noble task of plenipotentiary of weapons at the Iwata factory.
History Yamaha et Red started with that iconic victory in the first race in South Africa in 2004. Since then, the partnership has had many emotions and successes: conquering 142 podiums, celebrate 56 GP victories and winning four world titles MotoGP in 2004, 2005, 2008 and 2009, it creates links and it shows that Red et Yamaha are inextricably linked.
Valentino Rossi: “ I am happy that the agreement has been signed, so that Yamaha and I can work together in this new way »
« This agreement between me and Yamaha certainly gives me great emotion » commented the man who is now team boss in MoroGP, BMW official in motorsport and father of a family. “ We have worked together for many years in the past, so it seems natural. After retiring from MotoGP, I continued to train and ride motorcycles. I always planned to continue running in one form or another. During my MotoGP career I rode Yamahas as part of my contract, but even after retirement I continued to use Yamaha motorcycles because I love it. I am happy that the agreement has been signed, so that Yamaha and I can work together in this new way ».
For its part, Lynn Jarvis added : " of course, it's a big moment for Yamaha and it's also an emotional event for the fans. I'm sure they miss Valentino's presence in MotoGP since he retired after his brilliant career. Valentino and his M1 shared a special bond », Explains the director of Yamaha Racing in MotoGP. “ His arrival at Yamaha was the catalyst that completely changed our MotoGP racing program to the point where Valentino and Yamaha almost became synonymous. Together we have achieved many victories, podiums and four championships, and there are also moments behind the scenes: the hard work but also the fun parts and the shared passion for racing. We are delighted that Valentino is now officially our ambassador ».
Yes but within the VR46, these are Ducati who occupy the premises and bring back trophies, and this is planned until the end of 2024.
