Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. announced yesterday that Cal Crutchlow will be unable to perform his duties as a Yamaha Factory Racing MotoGP test rider due to complications resulting from hand surgery. In his place, MotoGP Legend Andrea Dovizioso has agreed to replace the British rider as Yamaha’s test rider for today and tomorrow’s private tests at Misano.
‘Dovi’ and Yamaha carried out a preliminary test a few weeks ago at Mugello, in which they confirmed that the bond between Dovizioso and the YZR-M1 remained as strong as ever, as confirmed by the team director of the Japanese factory.
Massimo Meregalli, Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team Director:
«Firstly, let me start by saying that we all wish Cal a speedy recovery and hope to see him back on track with our test team soon. However, in the meantime, we cannot afford to be idle. We are therefore delighted to confirm that Andrea has agreed to replace Cal and take on the role of Yamaha Factory Racing MotoGP test rider at the private Misano test. Andrea and Yamaha have enjoyed a close relationship going back many years.”
“‘Dovi’ is a very skilled and precise rider who also has a clear understanding of the technical side of MotoGP. Furthermore, apart from his experience in the MotoGP championship, he is also familiar with Yamaha’s MotoGP project, so we are looking forward to continuing our collaboration with him. We believe he will help us gather valuable data and give us good feedback.”«.
Statements by Andrea Dovizioso:
«I am sorry that Cal is still unwell and I hope he makes a speedy recovery. That said, I am happy and excited to have the opportunity to get back on a MotoGP bike and I would like to thank Yamaha for this opportunity. I look forward to contributing to the development of the bike.«.
