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MICHAEL VAN DER MARK REPLACES VALENTINO ROSSI AT YAMAHA FOR ARAGON

Michael van der Mark will replace Valentino Rossi at Aragon - Photo: LAT

By Bruce Williams

Michael van der Mark will replace Valentino Rossi at Aragon - Photo: LAT

Michael van der Mark will replace Valentino Rossi at Aragon – Photo: LAT

Yamaha have enlisted the services of World Superbike rider Michael van der Mark to replace the injured Valentino Rossi for the next MotoGP round at Aragón in Spain.

Rossi sat out of the last round at Misano (San Marino) after breaking his leg in a training incident in the lead up to the last MotoGP round.

The team reported that the Italian is making good progress with his rehabilitation process. However, it is expected that he will not be able to compete again before the Grand Prix of Japan at the Twin Ring Motegi, held from October 13th – 15th.

Three-time Suzuka 8 Hour winner, Van der Mark, will debut in the premier class on the YZR-M1, with the support of Rossi’s regular crew.

“It being virtually impossible for Valentino to be fit to race in Aragon, Yamaha decided to search for a capable replacement from within its own pool of contracted riders,” said Yamaha Motor Racing Managing Direct Lin Jarvis.

“We decided that Michael van der Mark should have the opportunity this time around.

“It is never easy to step in to replace another rider and even more difficult to replace Valentino Rossi, but we believe that Michael has all the credentials and experience to do a good job.

“We will give him our very best support and wish him every success for this exciting opportunity.”

Michael van der Mark will make his MotoGP debut with Yamaha - Photo: LAT

Michael van der Mark will make his MotoGP debut with Yamaha – Photo: LAT

Van der Mark who currently sits seventh in the WSBK standings, is excited about the opportunity to race in MotoGP.

“I’ve never ridden a MotoGP bike before, so this will be a completely new experience for me,” said van der Mark.

“I’m very curious to see what it feels like to ride on such a machine.

“I realise that it won’t be easy going straight into an official practice session without any prior testing.

“Nevertheless, I’m very grateful to Yamaha for the opportunity. I’m sure it will be a great learning experience.”

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