Yamaha delighted at new Valentino Rossi MotoGP deal

Yamaha boss Lin Jarvis has spoken of his delight at securing the services of Valentino Rossi for at least two more years.

Rossi penned a new deal in Laguna Seca to remain with Yamaha until the end of the 2010 season at least. He will again partner Jorge Lorenzo in the Fiat Yamaha squad next season.

Yamaha Motor Racing Managing Director Lin Jarvis said: “We are obviously delighted to have secured Valentino for a further two years. I think this news will be very welcome for MotoGP fans and for Yamaha fans around the world.

“Valentino is an icon in this sport and he is on top form right now as he challenges to win his eighth world championship and his third title together with Yamaha.

“This signing confirms Yamaha’s four-rider line-up for 2009 so now we can concentrate our full efforts on bike development and team organization to make sure that we are in the best possible shape for next year.

“In the meantime we have many races to go this season and I hope that Valentino can win in Laguna Seca for the first time this Sunday to extend his championship lead before the well-deserved summer break – Forza Vale!”

Rossi’s deal completes Yamaha’s 2009 line-up, with Colin Edwards agreeing terms to stay with the Tech 3 squad for at least one more season. The American confirmed his deal on Thursday.