August Fernandez, who will make his MotoGP debut at Misano this weekend on Yamaha’s V4 prototype, has signed an extension to stay a manufacturing facility take a look at and wildcard rider till the tip of 2027.
“I am very completely satisfied to be doing Yamaha for 2 extra years,” Fernandez stated.
“This 12 months has been an unimaginable journey to date. I have been feeling actually good from the beginning, with the take a look at staff and everybody who joined Yamaha.
“It is a essential time to be a part of the Yamaha Manufacturing unit Racing Testing Staff, with all of the initiatives we keep in mind. I am proud and completely satisfied to be right here and proceed my work. I am going to do my greatest to deliver the model to the highest once more.”
The Spaniard, the Moto2 champion, joined Yamaha this season after spending two seasons on the MotoGP at Tech3 KTM.
His preliminary objective was to safe full-time MotoGP returns as quickly as doable, however the 27-year-old has been within the forefront of inline and V4 machines improvement duties, plus a number of wildcard and substitute race appearances.
“We’re happy to verify that Augusto will proceed to collaborate with the Yamaha Manufacturing unit Racing Check Staff,” stated Paolo Pavesio, managing director of Yamaha Racing.
“Since becoming a member of us earlier this 12 months, he has made an unimaginable influence, bringing each aggressive sharpness and technical insights to the event program. The synergy with Andrea Dovizioso has confirmed significantly precious in each take a look at periods and wildcard entries.
“As a full-time MotoGP rider nowadays, Augusto stays at peak bodily and aggressive circumstances, making him an excellent asset for stress testing new V4-driven prototypes. His suggestions will assist us consider efficiency metrics and enhance our understanding of Yamaha’s aggressive positioning.
“Along with his function as a take a look at rider, Augusto additionally serves as a standby substitute rider for each Yamaha groups if a necessity arises in the course of the MotoGP season, successfully turning into the “fifth manufacturing facility rider.” ”
Whereas Yamaha is predicted to focus solely on the V4 in 2026, Fernandez can even be required to develop a brand new 850cc/Pirelli machine the next 12 months.
“We consider that Augusto’s continued involvement is essential for the success of ‘Plan V’ in 2027 and the event of two parallel initiatives, a few of the most vital technical challenges in Yamaha’s historical past of racing,” Pavesio added.
Thanks Yamaha Cal Crutchlow
Pavesio additionally confirmed that Yamaha take a look at rider Cal Crutchlow will not be a part of the manufacturing facility’s future improvement program since retiring as a full-time rider on the finish of 2020.
“We’d additionally wish to take this chance to thank Cal Crutchlow for his work as a take a look at rider over the previous few years. He’s not concerned within the V4 venture, however we’re deeply grateful for Yamaha’s a few years of contributions to bicycle improvement.
“We’re thrilled that sooner or later, each Andrea and Augusto have chosen to proceed their journey with us in 2026 and 2027.
“This weekend’s wildcard entry marks an thrilling new chapter, which I consider will entice the eye of MotoGP followers.”
