Yamaha is intensifying its efforts to close the gap on Ducati’s dominant MotoGP performance. The Japanese manufacturer has started on a multi-faceted strategy including significant personnel changes, rider retention, and team expansion.
Having already recruited key personnel from Ducati and secured a long-term deal with Fabio Quartararo, Yamaha is now exploring the possibility of adding Tech3’s Augusto Fernandez to its test rider lineup.
This move is aimed at bolstering its development efforts, particularly in light of Cal Crutchlow’s injury-affected season, which has hampered Yamaha’s ability to fully capitalize on MotoGP’s concession rules.
Yamaha’s MotoGP struggles have pushed them to bolster their testing program. They’re looking for a young rider to complement the experienced Cal Crutchlow.
Their ideal candidate would be someone hungry for track time, allowing Yamaha to capitalize on the testing concessions granted for not achieving top championship placing. While Remy Gardner, currently competing in World Superbike with Yamaha, was initially considered, he seems hesitant about a full-time testing role.
This has led Yamaha to explore options with Augusto Fernandez, the 2022 Moto2 champion who lacks a confirmed seat for 2025. Fernandez has expressed openness to a testing role with Yamaha, potentially including wildcard race opportunities depending on Crutchlow’s recovery.
