A former driver well known in the paddock of MotoGP will make his return to the track at Misano in the ranks of Yamaha. Injured for several months, Cal Crutchlow is still not fully fit to return to the circuits, and therefore to fulfill his duties at Yamaha as a test rider.
The complications experienced by the Briton following hand surgery had pushed Iwata to hire Remy Gardner as a Wildcard, but also to replace one of his starters in the event of injury, as was the case with Alex Rins in Germany.
After Gardner's few tricks, it's Andrea Dovizioso's turn to enter the scene. The Italian legend completed a successful test with Yamaha a few weeks ago at Mugello (Italy). The brand has therefore decided to entrust him with its YZR-M1 for the private tests which it will carry out in Misano on Tuesday August 20 and Wednesday August 21.
“I'm sorry Cal still hasn't recovered. I hope he recovers quickly, comments the main person concerned. That said, I'm happy and excited to have the chance to get back into MotoGP. I would like to thank Yamaha for this opportunity. I hope I can make my contribution to the development of the bike. »
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“First of all, let me start by saying that we all wish Cal a speedy recovery, underlines Massimo Merregalli, leader of the Blues. Hopefully we’ll see it back on track with our testing team soon.
However, in the meantime, we cannot afford to be inactive, He continues. We are therefore delighted to confirm that Andrea has agreed to replace Cal and take on the role of MotoGP Yamaha test rider. »
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Dovizioso towards long-term deal with Yamaha?
The Forlì driver has maintained close relations with the brand for many years, since he notably rode there at the end of his career (2021-22).
“Dovi is a very skilled and precise pilot. He also has a clear understanding of the technical side of MotoGP, continues Meregalli. In addition, his experience in the championship allows him to know Yamaha's MotoGP project. We are therefore very much looking forward to continuing our partnership with him. We think it will help us a lot. »
This announcement naturally suits Andrea Dovizioso. If for the moment it is a simple replacement, it is not excluded that the latter occupies this role full time. While his predecessor suffers a series of injuries, and Remy Gardner lacks experience, the Italian could prove to be a considerable asset.