Rossi and Movistar Yamaha together for two more years
MotoGP star Valentino Rossi is one of the sports figures that proves the age is not an obstacle. Although he is 39 years old, he extended his deal with Movistar Yamaha for two more years. Rossi is determined to keep racing until the end of 2020 season.
Valentino Rossi is one of the most popular riders in the motorcycle world, he started racing in the premier class since 2000 and managed to win nine world titles. Although it may seem he is on a hunt for the tenth world title, Rossi is committed to race as long as he remains competitive.
The Movistar Yamaha MotoGP team is confident in their partnership with the Tavullia rider ahead of the first round this weekend in Qatar. Hopefully, the combination between “The Doctor” and the YZR-M1 will bring many wins in the 2018 season.
Rossi stated:
When I signed my last contract with Yamaha, in March 2016, I wondered if that would have been the last contract as a MotoGP rider. At that time, I decided that I’d take that decision during the following two years. During the last two years I came to the conclusion that I want to continue because racing, being a MotoGP rider, but especially riding my M1, is the thing that makes me feel good.
Having the opportunity to work with my team, with Silvano, Matteo and all my mechanics, and working with all Japanese engineers, Tsuji-san, and above all Tsuya-san, is a pleasure – I’m happy.
Yamaha Racing mananing director, Lin Jarvis says the decision came natural from both sides.
The confirmation of Valentino’s two-year extension of his Agreement with Yamaha is a great way to start the 2018 season that kicks off officially on Friday in Qatar. The news may not be a great surprise because Valentino has made it clear that he wanted to continue to race, but the reconfirmation will surely come as welcome news for his millions of fans around the world.
It was very easy to reach an agreement together – as a Factory Team we need top riders capable to win and with the total commitment to do what it takes to achieve the goal. Despite his many years in the sport and his 39 years, Vale is as committed today as he ever was and there is no doubt he is still a top rider, as witnessed most recently by his second position in the final pre-season test here in Qatar. Now it is our job as a team and a factory to give him the best possible YZR-M1 to let him fight for race wins and championship success.
Having both Maverick and Valentino now signed for 2019-20 allows us to just focus all of our energy on the 2018 season and to be strong contenders at every single MotoGP Grand Prix. It promises to be a highly competitive season and like all the fans – we in Yamaha are truly excited to go racing on Sunday night here in Losail.
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