YAMAHA SHUFFLE RIDERS

The immediate departure of Maverick Vinales from Yamaha has triggered a rider shuffle for the Japanese manufacturer ahead of the next round at Silverstone.

Following the immediate termination of Vinales, who could now make an early appearance at new team Aprilia, Yahama has recalled the services of test and reserve rider Cal Crutchlow to the factory Monster Energy squad.

Crutchlow had been lent out to the satellite team, Petronas Yamaha SRT, to fill in for the injured Franco Morbidelli in Austria. The Brit will now team up with championship leader Fabio Quartararo for his home race.

“It’s a privilege to be a part of Yamaha and to do what originally was supposed to be three races for the Petronas Yamaha Sepang Racing Team, but the plans have changed. I want to thank them and I look forward to riding with the Factory Team.” said Crutchlow.

With Morbidelli still recovering from knee surgery undertaken in June, Petronas Yamaha Sepang Racing Team will promote Moto2 rider, Jake Dixon.

Dixon will make his MotoGP debut in what is a one-off deal at this stage.

“It’s been a lifelong goal to make it into the MotoGP class.” said Dixon.

“So to get the opportunity to do it for one GP this year, on the bike that I always wanted to – the Yamaha YZR-M1 – and to do it at home is something really special.”

“It is going to be very difficult but I’m looking forward to jumping on the big bike, even though it’s different, and it’s very exciting!”

“I haven’t been able to sleep because I’ve just been thinking about it. It’s a dream come true.”

“I’m going to give my all to do the best I can for the team and I want to say a massive thank you to them for this opportunity. Also to Yamaha for believing in me as well.”

“I don’t have any targets, I’m just aiming to enjoy it and gather all the experience I can.”

“I just want to wish Franco a speedy recovery and that we can see him back at the track soon.”

The announcement means that there will be two British riders on the premier class grid for the British Motorcycle Grand Prix this year, both last-minute additions.

“This is a unique opportunity for Jake to show what he can do and explore his potential on a Yamaha YZR-M1.” said Razlan Razali, Petronas Yamaha SRT team principal.

“We are not setting any particular targets regarding results; it is an opportunity for experience at his home GP, while Franco continues his recovery.”

“This is a one-off opportunity, and we wanted one of our family of riders to have this chance aboard the MotoGP bike.”

“As it is his home Grand Prix, it is a circuit that Jake knows well and it will be great for the British fans to have another rider in the premier class.”

“We also thank Cal for his contribution to the team during the past two GPs and we wish him all the best for next weekend.”

The move comes as Petronas Yamaha SRT looks at potential riders for 2022, with Valentino Rossi retiring and Morbidelli expected to move up to the factory squad in 2022.

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