MotoGP - Yamaha confirms Augusto Fernandez: MotoGP test rider stays long-term

MotoGP had only one topic of conversation on Thursday before the San Marino GP in Misano : the upcoming debut of Yamaha's V4 engine . In a specially convened press conference, the Iwata-based manufacturer proudly presented its latest gem – and also used the opportunity to clarify a not insignificant personnel matter.

As the Yamaha Motor Company announced on Thursday evening, the contract with test rider Augusto Fernandez , who will test the V4 engine for the first time next weekend, has been extended. The 27-year-old from Madrid signed a two-year contract, committing himself to Yamaha until the end of the 2027 season and will continue to serve as a test rider until then.

"We are delighted to confirm that Augusto will continue his collaboration with the Yamaha Factory Racing Test Team. Since joining at the beginning of this year, he has made a remarkable impression, bringing both competitive strength and technical insight to our development program. His synergy with Andrea Dovizioso has proven particularly valuable in both testing and wildcard assignments," said Yamaha Team Manager Paolo Pavesio, explaining the contract extension.

Fernandez joined Yamaha in 2025 after being denied a new contract with Tech3-KTM. Since then, he has played a key role in the development of the V4 engine and, via wildcards and as a replacement rider at Pramac (for the injured Miguel Oliveira), has already made five Grand Prix starts in the current MotoGP season, scoring six World Championship points. After Misano, further appearances at Motegi and Valencia are expected in 2025. "As a recent full-time MotoGP rider, Augusto remains in top form and competitive, making him an ideal test rider for our new V4-engined prototype," Pavesio added. "His feedback is crucial for evaluating performance indicators and refining our understanding of Yamaha's competitive position."

Before Fernandez's arrival , Cal Crutchlow had been Yamaha's sole MotoGP test rider. The Briton had to undergo hand surgery in the spring of 2024 and has been out since then, while regular WSBK rider Remy Gardner had to take on unplanned stand-in and wildcard appearances. And as Pavesio hinted on Thursday, Crutchlow will likely not return to the M1 in the future. The Yamaha team manager thanked Crutchlow for his service over the past few years, which seems to have sealed the definitive end of the long-time MotoGP regular's career. In Andrea Dovizioso, Yamaha already has another test rider alongside Fernandez. We provide all the information about 'Dovi's' special role in this article: