Andrea Dovizioso to Test Yamaha MotoGP Bike Today

Yamaha is once again without Cal Crutchlow, who remains sidelined after missing recent tests and wildcard races at Assen, Sachsenring and Silverstone. With a two-day test at Misano which starts today, Yamaha have called upon former three-time MotoGP runner-up Andrea Dovizioso as a result.

Yamaha could have elected to forgo the two-day test until Crutchlow was fit again, but with Yamaha still way down the MotoGP pecking order, improvements are needed, and needed fast. That’s where Dovizioso comes in, as the Italian is one of the most successful riders of the past decade, while also having recent Yamaha experience, even if it didn’t go so well in terms of results.

"I am sorry that Cal is still not well, and I hope he recovers quickly.” said Dovizioso ahead of the test. "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.”

Dovizioso, who somewhat surprisingly ventured into motocross racing after his MotoGP career ended in 2022, has admitted he would like to return to the Grand Prix paddock in the future. This is in no way a sign that he will be making such a return, however, it's interesting that Yamaha has opted to bring Dovizioso in, especially since they have two extra seats for the 2025 season after signing a deal with Pramac to run two satellite bikes.

Speaking about the importance of testing even without its official test rider Crutchlow, 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.”