Dovizioso becomes Yamaha's MotoGP test rider

The former Ducati factory team rider is making his first official comeback since retiring from the MotoGP grid in 2022.

Andrea Dovizioso has been testing for Yamaha at irregular intervals, taking part in the shakedown test in Sepang in February as part of pre-season preparations.

Paolo Pavesio, managing director of the Yamaha factory team, commented on Dovizioso: "Dovi is not only a MotoGP legend with outstanding riding skills, he also has technical knowledge and can give effective feedback to the engineers."

“His role as test rider is critical to our development programme for our MotoGP bike. But we are also very excited about his new role as rider performance advisor, which will enable Yamaha to share knowledge more efficiently and effectively between the four MotoGP riders and their engineers.”

Andrea Dovizioso is also very enthusiastic about his new role at Yamaha and aims to contribute to the performance development process.

Andrea Dovizioso, Yamaha Factory Racing Test Rider and Rider Performance Advisor

Photo: Yamaha MotoGP

"I feel completely comfortable in this role that we have defined together with Yamaha. Our aim is to maximize my contribution to this important project. As both a test driver and performance consultant, I see myself as a critical link between all actors involved in the development process."

"My goal is to create a strong synergy between the drivers, the team and the technical staff, based on my experience on the track and in the garage."

"We realize that this journey will be shaped by many small details, but we have a clear vision of the outcome we want to achieve and we are aware of the dedication it will take to get there."

Yamaha's statement did not mention Cal Crutchlow, who is currently under contract as test rider until the end of the 2026 season.