P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Yamaha’s aggressive pursuit of MotoGP improvement continues as it eyes an expanded test team for 2025, with two well known Moto2 champions are among its candidates help boost its long-term chances
Yamaha has invested heavily in its MotoGP project to regain its competitive edge, employing various strategies such as hiring top technical personnel from rival teams and planning to expand its bike lineup for the next season. The team’s test team is now the focus of a potential overhaul, with rumors suggesting new additions to support current test rider Cal Crutchlow. Crutchlow, who joined Yamaha post-retirement in 2020, has been leading the development team, but his recent hand surgery has sidelined him temporarily, causing him to miss scheduled wildcard races. Despite his absence, Yamaha’s testing program has not been significantly affected, thanks to its concession status. With new developments planned for 2025 and the arrival of Pramac as a partner, Yamaha is looking to secure additional test riders alongside Crutchlow, who is reportedly contracted until 2026. Two names linked to the testing team are past Moto2 champions Remy Gardner and Augusto Fernandez, who are both considering the opportunity to join Yamaha as test riders. Fernandez mentioned that he is evaluating both racing in Superbikes and becoming a test rider, while Gardner, who recently returned to MotoGP in Crutchlow’s absence, is also a potential candidate for the role.
