Yamaha’s MotoGP squad has confirmed Andrea Dovizioso will stand in for its regular Test Rider Cal Crutchlow during a private Misano outing this week, as the Briton continues to recover from injury.
Dovizioso, a 15-time GP winner, retired from racing in 2022, with his final outings coming aboard the Yamaha M1 with the defunct RNF squad.
The three-time MotoGP vice-champion has already completed a test at Mugello to get reacquainted with the Yamaha MotoGP machine.
Now, Dovi will complete a two-day test across August 20 and 21 at the Misano Circuit as Yamaha’s Official Test Rider Cructlow continues to recover from a hand injury sustained earlier this year.
“I am sorry that Cal is still not well, and I hope he recovers quickly,” said Dovizioso.
“Having said that, I am happy and excited to have the chance to get on a MotoGP bike again, and I would like to thank Yamaha for this opportunity.
“I hope I will be able to make my contribution to the development of the bike.”
Yamaha Team Director Massimo Meregalli added: “First of all, let me start by saying that we all wish Cal a speedy recovery and hope to see him back on track soon with our test team.
“However, in the meantime we can’t afford to be idle. We are therefore delighted to confirm that Andrea has agreed to fill in for Cal and take on the role of the Yamaha Factory Racing MotoGP Test rider at the private Misano test.
“Andrea and Yamaha have had a close relationship for many years. Dovi is a highly skilled and precise rider who also has a clear understanding of the technical side of MotoGP.
“Furthermore, besides his experience in the MotoGP championship, he is also familiar with Yamaha’s MotoGP Project, so we are greatly looking forward to continuing our partnership with him.
“We think he will help us collect valuable data and give us good feedback.”
Yamaha is in desperate need of Dovizioso’s efforts with the Japanese marque continuing to struggle in MotoGP.
After 11 rounds this campaign, riders Fabio Quartaroro and Alex Rins have combined for just 57 points, a meagre effort for the former championship-winning entry.
As well as an extensive testing programme permitted by MotoGP’s concession rules, Yamaha’s efforts will be boosted next year with Pramac coming onboard as a partnering team, bringing the total number of M1’s on next year’s grid to four.
