Valentino Rossi confirms a two-year extension with Movistar Yamaha

Yamaha Movistar has announced Valentino Rossi has signed a new contract that will keep him in the team and MotoGP until the end of 2018. It was expected, as the 37-year-old motorcycling legend had earlier said he would retire after two more years at MotoGP.

Rossi said, “I am very happy to announce that Yamaha and I have extended our contract and will continue working together in MotoGP for the next two years. I am very satisfied with this decision, because it has always been my plan to compete in motorsports for as long as I can be competitive and find it enjoyable at the same time.” 

“Ever since I returned to Yamaha in 2013 I have felt like I am home again and this showed in the results. I get great enjoyment out of working with my crew and the rest of the Movistar Yamaha MotoGP team. Their support for me has known no limit and I want to thank them sincerely for that. I'm feeling greatly motivated to keep riding my YZR-M1 for the best results possible, this year and the following two seasons.”

In 1997, 19 years ago, Valentino Rossi hinted at his dominating the future of MotoGP with his first World Championship. The self-proclaimed ‘Doctor’ is known for his ruthless riding efficiency and extravagant podium celebrations

Yamaha, Managing Director, Lin Jarvis said, “I believe the confirmation of the extension with Valentino will be music to the ears of Yamaha fans and MotoGP fans around the world. I cannot think of a better way to start a new season than for both parties to make this strong commitment."

Jarvis also suggested that this will be Rossi's final MotoGP contract: “When Vale returned home [to Yamaha] in 2013 it was 'a decision for life'. This new agreement confirms that Vale will indeed finish his motorcycle racing career with Yamaha.”

In all, Rossi has won seven premier-class titles and a record 86 race wins. He has qualified fifth fastest for today's race, with world champion Lorenzo taking pole position on an all-Spanish front-row that also included Marc Marquez and Maverick Vinales.