Liberty Media faces a new challenge from the EU in its acquisition of MotoGP

The European Union plans to initiate an investigation into the planned acquisition

The European Union is poised to investigate Liberty Media's intended acquisition of the MotoGP World Championship.

According to information from Bloomberg & Reuters, the European Union's newly appointed antitrust head, Teresa Ribera, along with her staff, have expressed concerns that the acquisition valued at 3.5 billion euros might hamper competitive practices in the broadcasting and streaming sectors. This apprehension arises from the potential consolidation of the MotoGP and F1 franchises under a single proprietorship.

Earlier in the year, the American corporation that holds ownership of Formula 1 disclosed its purchase of an 86% majority stake in Dorna Sports, the entity behind MotoGP. Following this announcement, Liberty Media has successfully navigated the required regulatory steps to finalize this acquisition by the end of the year target.

In August, it was revealed that Liberty Media intended to offload Formula 1 shares valued at $825 million as part of financing its proposed purchase of MotoGP.

In November, Chief Executive Officer Greg Maffei announced that the acquisition of MotoGP by the company had been officially submitted to the European Commission.

He mentioned, "Briefly touching on MotoGP; we have submitted to the European Commission for regulatory clearance and anticipate being on schedule to obtain that by the end of the year."

The European Commission is facing a decision-making deadline on Liberty's acquisition of MotoGP, set for December 19th. Recent developments suggest that authorities are gearing up for a secondary phase of investigation by this same date, based on information from a Bloomberg report. It was also noted that the decision is presently in a preliminary stage and could be altered.

In the same vein, the acquisition of Formula 1 by CVC Capital in 2006 led to regulatory intervention, requiring the firm to divest its stake in MotoGP due to antitrust concerns. Regulators viewed this as creating a motorsport monopoly. Consequently, MotoGP was transferred to its present owners, Bridgepoint.

As early as October of this year, Pascal Arimont, a Member of the European Parliament from Belgium, called upon the European Commission to conduct an inquiry into Liberty Media due to concerns about the company potentially monopolizing global motorsport by owning both Formula 1 and MotoGP.

Nonetheless, from the outset, Liberty has maintained a strong belief that the situation will not repeat itself this time. When Reuters contacted Liberty Media seeking a statement, they did not provide a response at this moment.

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Marc Marquez reveals his genuine perspective on maintaining their rivalry to Valentino Rossi

Marc Marquez reacts to Valentino Rossi's fury

Marc Marquez has replied to Valentino Rossi's latest outburst, sharing his own perspective on their ongoing dispute.

Recently, Rossi reignited the contentious issues from their 2015 clash, criticizing Marquez for lacking sportsmanship and holding him responsible for his inability to secure the MotoGP championship during that controversial year.

Rossi's harsh comments were made as Marquez was getting ready to join the Ducati team, working closely with VR46's rising star, Pecco Bagnaia.

However, Marquez has now given a response.

"Marquez expressed the sentiment that a fight cannot happen without mutual consent, as reported by Marca."

His efforts to dampen the flames ignited by Rossi could be the perfect strategy leading up to 2025.

Marquez is required to adjust to the current factory edition of the Ducati, having spent the previous season on an older model of the bike.

At last, equipped with machinery on par with Bagnaia, and with titleholder Jorge Martin adjusting to the Aprilia, Marquez is in clear sight of securing another MotoGP title.

Marc Marquez expressed his eagerness to move forward, stating, "I didn't question it; I simply asked, 'where do I sign?'" Looking back on a triumphant 2024, Marquez saw it as a significant rebound from the series of falls and injuries that marked his last period with Honda.

He managed to remain a contender for the championship title until the final stages of the series, and he found his way back to victory by choosing to switch from Repsol Honda to Gresini Ducati.

"He mentioned that when you suddenly encounter the negative aspects of sports, it transforms you in ways you didn't anticipate."

"Suffering from an injury can lead to a downward spiral, and from there, the consequences can be unpredictable."

"Returning from an injury, even while still feeling discomfort, one realizes that winning isn't the default outcome. Instead, being second, third, or even lower is more typical, as victories are rare, often coming after numerous losses."

"This is the reason I find more joy in winning now than I did previously."

This season, I've discovered the ideal setting for a fresh start, a place where I can thrive without stress and truly enjoy myself. Gresini, a team deeply rooted in passion, originally led by Fausto and currently managed by his spouse alongside long-standing members, operates as a satellite team. It seamlessly blends enthusiasm with expertise.

In sports, the focus is on the current moment; your value is determined by your recent performances. I was beginning to shine, adjusting to the Ducati and continually improving my performance.

Upon being informed that I had been selected, I didn't question their choice. Instead, I simply inquired, "Alright, where's the contract?" and that was all.

Gigi Dall'Igna shared the news with me, and I responded with gratitude. I'm committed to proving it was the correct choice.

Marquez likened his move to Bagnaia's team to a football transfer.

"Vinicius is the key figure present; he's the focal point," he commented on the Real Madrid soccer player.

"Following this, Mbappé will undergo a period of adjustment."

"Pecco sets the standard within the Ducati team, having secured 11 race victories this season. He remained a contender for the World Championship until the final race and has claimed the world champion title twice within that team."

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Outgoing KTM leader identifies precise reasons for this year's failures

KTM chief evaluates below-average performance in 2024

Francesco Guidotti has openly pinpointed the precise missteps KTM made this season.

At the beginning of the season, many expected KTM to be Ducati's primary competitors, but they failed to secure a victory throughout the year.

Brad Binder, who came in fifth, and Pedro Acosta, who finished sixth, were the highest-placed riders not on Ducati motorcycles in the MotoGP rankings. However, their team was unable to provide them with a motorcycle capable of winning races.

In contrast, Aprilia facilitated victories in sprint races for both Aleix Espargaro and Maverick Vinales. Additionally, Vinales claimed victory in the grand prix at COTA.

Despite Acosta's initial flashes of genius, the forecast of him securing a race victory never materialized.

"According to the departing team leader Guidotti, they had a strong start with various riders achieving podium finishes, setting high expectations."

We initiated our journey with a substantial goal in mind. Up until the halfway point of the season, we were performing quite well.

"Starting from the middle of the season, we faced some challenges. Our chosen path turned out not to be the most suitable for us."

The leading competitors achieved slight progress, further widening the existing disparity.

"There was an unusual instance halfway through the season."

"This marked the point where we missed the opportunity to remain close to the leading position."

"The conduct of the riders was appropriate; they persisted without surrendering. Similarly, the technicians maintained their efforts. However, in truth, we weren't truly competing."

Acosta's second-place finish in Texas was filled with hope, but afterward, he endured a tough stretch of eight races without securing a spot on the podium.

Jack Miller and Augusto Fernandez consistently trailed behind their team members.

"Guidotti mentioned they had to go back and begin the movie from the start."

Toward the season's finale, it was clear that KTM led the pack. The period was marked by several mishaps and occurrences.

"In general, it's acceptable. It might not be our ideal choice, but it's what's currently available to us."

"At the beginning of the year, we failed to capitalize on numerous opportunities, which ultimately led to our defeat in the game."

Guidotti is set to step down, with Aki Ajo taking over as the team boss for KTM in 2025.

"Definitely, there have been numerous modifications," Guidotti stated.

"Typically, alterations provide additional inspiration."

"As a result of these transformations, we also forfeit expertise and a bond."

"However, I'm confident that Aki will guide the team in his own way."

The composition of the riders appears considerably more robust.

Acosta has advanced to join the factory team, partnering with Binder.

The updated Tech3 KTM squad will feature Enea Bastianini and Vinales.

Concerns for KTM could stem from their financial troubles, aside from their involvement in MotoGP.

The announced €3 billion launch indicates that the company has entered into self-management.

They maintain that their MotoGP ambitions for 2025 remain on track, with scheduled tests set to jumpstart their development, aiming for a strong start in the upcoming year.

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KTM's departing leader identifies specific failures of the year

KTM's chief evaluates the below-average performance in 2024

Francesco Guidotti has openly pinpointed the mistakes KTM made this year.

At the beginning of the season, KTM was widely regarded as Ducati's primary competition, yet they failed to secure a single race victory throughout the year.

Brad Binder, who came in fifth, and Pedro Acosta, ranking sixth, were the highest-placed riders not on Ducati motorcycles in the MotoGP rankings, yet their team was unable to provide them with a motorcycle capable of winning races.

In contrast, Aprilia facilitated victories in sprint races for both Aleix Espargaro and Maverick Vinales. Additionally, Vinales secured a win in the grand prix at COTA.

Despite Acosta's initial exceptional performances, the expectation that he would secure a race victory never materialized.

"Guidotti, the departing team leader, mentioned, 'We kicked off impressively, achieving several podium finishes with various riders. The anticipation was significant.'"

We began with a significant goal in mind. Up until the middle of the season, we were performing quite well.

"Starting from the middle of the season, we faced some challenges. Our chosen path didn't turn out to be the most advantageous for us."

The leading competitors achieved slight progress, further widening the existing disparity.

"During the middle of the season, we experienced an odd period."

"This marked the moment we missed the opportunity to remain close to the peak."

"The conduct of the riders was commendable; they consistently persevered. Similarly, the technical team maintained their efforts without surrendering. However, the truth is we were never truly contenders in the competition."

Acosta's second-place finish in Texas was a hopeful moment, but it was followed by a challenging stretch of eight races without making it to the podium.

Jack Miller and Augusto Fernandez consistently trailed behind their team members.

"Guidotti mentioned that we needed to backtrack the film and begin anew."

Towards the season's end, it was clear that KTM led the pack. This period was marked by several accidents and unexpected events.

"In summary, it's acceptable. While it doesn't fully meet our expectations, it's currently what we have to work with."

"At the beginning of the year, we failed to capitalize on numerous opportunities, leading to our defeat in the game."

Guidotti is set to step down, with Aki Ajo taking over as the team boss for KTM in 2025.

"Definitely. The transformations are numerous," Guidotti remarked.

Typically, alterations provide additional inspiration.

"Amidst these transformations, we also forfeit expertise and a bond.

"However, I'm confident that Aki will guide the team in his own way."

The roster of riders appears considerably more formidable.

Acosta has advanced to join the factory team, partnering with Binder.

The updated lineup for the Tech3 KTM squad consists of Enea Bastianini and Vinales.

Concerns for KTM could center around their monetary troubles, separate from their MotoGP operations.

The announced launch of €3 billion signifies that the manufacturer has entered into self-management.

They maintain that their MotoGP strategies for 2025 remain on track, with scheduled tests set to propel their development efforts forward, beginning with significant momentum next year.

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MotoGP has announced information about its new season kickoff event for 2025, marking a fresh entry on the championship's schedule.

The inaugural MotoGP season launch event details have been released.

The gathering is scheduled to occur in Bangkok, Thailand, at the One Bangkok location on February 9, 2025. This is just three days prior to the last preseason trial at Buriram International Circuit and approximately three weeks before the 2025 season starts at the same location from February 28 to March 2.

According to a post on MotoGP.com, the anticipated all-in-one team launch event for the season will occur after the majority of the 2025 designs have already been unveiled.

The occasion will serve as an opportunity for enthusiasts to catch a preview of the elite riders of 2025. This lineup features the renowned duo from the factory Ducati team, Marc Marquez and Francesco Bagnaia, Pedro Acosta sporting his new Red Bull KTM attire, and the newly crowned MotoGP World Champion Jorge Martin, who is gearing up for his debut season with Aprilia.

The occasion will be broadcast live on MotoGP's social media platforms. The organization guarantees that "this is an opportunity for fans, whether attending in person or tuning in globally, to witness the entire lineup before the start of another exciting season."

According to MotoGP.com, the participants will engage in a 'Hero Walk' and will be on stage from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM local time. During this period, they will participate in interviews and display their 2025 colors.

The event will also offer various entertainment options, such as chances to take photos with MotoGP bikes being driven around Bangkok all day long. There will be a DJ playing music starting at 3:30 PM, followed by a musical performance beginning at 6:45 PM. According to MotoGP.com, this show will highlight a prominent local artist, whose identity will be announced shortly.

In the end, the participants will make their way to the roof for an exclusive gathering starting at 8:30 PM.

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Aleix Espargaro transitions to professional cycling

Former MotoGP rider Aleix Espargaro has revealed his new venture into professional cycling with the Lidl-Trek team.

Aleix Espargaro has transitioned to the Lidl-Trek pro cycling squad after wrapping up his MotoGP career on a full-time basis.

Espargaro is set to officially start his tenure with the Lidl-Trek team as an ambassador on January 1, 2025.

Espargaro will also participate with the Lidl-Trek team in some of the calendar's most celebrated events, according to a statement from the team.

"I'm excited to become a part of the Lidl-Trek team, renowned for having some of the top cyclists globally," Espargaro expressed.

"I'm thrilled at the opportunity to gain insights from top-tier cyclists and team members, challenge my boundaries, and bring fans along for this extraordinary adventure."

Espargar, a dedicated fan of cycling for many years, announced his decision to end his MotoGP racing career "sooner than expected" in order to become a part of the Lidl-Trek squad.

"I've had a deep love for cycling for many years, and I made the decision to leave MotoGP ahead of schedule to be part of a program that fits perfectly with my interest," he mentioned.

"I'm profoundly thankful to Lidl-Trek for embracing me into their fold and offering their support. I'll dedicate all my efforts."

Espargaro revealed his decision to retire from regular MotoGP competition during his local Grand Prix event in Catalunya this year.

Espargaro's obligations with Lidl-Trek will be complemented by a fresh role as a test rider for HRC's MotoGP initiative, a duty he embarked on during the official Barcelona test last month, after the season-ending Solidarity Grand Prix.

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Davide Tardozzi criticizes Pecco Bagnaia sharply: "These competitors are outperforming you."

"It's not always possible to play nice. It simply isn't…"

Video unveiled in a recent three-episode series about MotoGP by Ducati showcases a notably intense exchange between Francesco Bagnaia and Davide Tardozzi.

The show, titled "Dream On: Ducati and Bagnaia’s Pursuit of Glory," aims to provide an insider’s perspective on the concluding races of the 2024 MotoGP World Championship, centering on Bagnaia and his experiences within the Ducati Lenovo Team.

Potentially, the most crucial moment from the initial episode, released on Ducati's YouTube channel on December 15, emerges following the Sprint at the Thai Grand Prix.

Bagnaia, who began the race in pole position, found himself in third place after the first turn, having been overtaken by his championship competitor, Jorge Martin, on the inside during the approach to the first corner.

The Italian regained his spot ahead of Martin as they came out of the turn, yet the Spaniard managed to overtake him again as they shifted from turn six to turn seven further into the race, pushing Bagnaia down to third place.

The segment features a conversation inside Bagnaia's vehicle following the Sprint, attended by Bagnaia, his spouse, sibling, media representative, and the Ducati Lenovo Team's leader Davide Tardozzi.

"Martin really showed courage today," Tardozzi said to Bagnaia.

"The courage to take you down. […] His mind was made up about pestering you. He went ahead and did what was necessary."

"That's your task for tomorrow. You can't always play the nice guy. It's just not possible, especially when these guys are outperforming you."

"Martin singled you out right from the start, making up his mind to collide with you at the very first turn. It's clear there was no uncertainty in his intentions."

"You have to quit playing the nice guy; these fellows will rip you to shreds."

The following day, a last-minute choice to switch Bagnaia's main motorcycle to a rain-oriented configuration, a decision-making process depicted in the inaugural episode of Dream On, enabled him to recover from the Sprint's letdown and secure his first win in the top tier under rainy conditions during the Grand Prix.

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Adjustments Aprilia must implement for Jorge Martin to create significant MotoGP records

Securing a MotoGP championship is an achievement, yet Jorge Martin aims to do so after transitioning to a new team in 2025.

Jorge Martin's transition from Pramac Ducati to Aprilia offers the Spanish racer an uncommon chance to secure MotoGP championships with varied manufacturers.

Nonetheless, to achieve this, Aprilia, which secured the third spot in this year's constructors' rankings, must enhance its MotoGP offering.

"Jordan Moreland, the host of the Crash MotoGP Podcast, confirmed that it's a step back due to Ducati's dominance. However, during Martin's initial trial in Barcelona, despite not having direct quotes from him, it appeared they were quite satisfied overall."

"The focus is truly on advancing to the next level for Aprilia, as that's been their position for the past season and a half. There's been a significant difference in performance when comparing them with Ducati."

Crash.net's MotoGP chief, Peter McLaren, highlighted consistency as a key element in Martin's 2025 championship success, a trait Martin mastered in 2024, unlike Aprilia.

McLaren mentioned, "I believe it was [Massimo] Rivola who made the comment; they have to improve their overall performance, right?"

This year, they stood out as the sole manufacturer to outperform Ducati, marking a significant accomplishment. However, they concurrently fell back in the rankings, ending up behind KTM in the constructors’ standings.

"Aprilia's performance is a mixed bag, but they must improve on their average days to be contenders for the championship."

Securing the championship would position Martin as just the third competitor ever to secure the top-tier Grand Prix championship in consecutive years with different manufacturers, following in the footsteps of Valentino Rossi (2003–04) and Eddie Lawson (1988–89).

"Securing that achievement would be a huge deal for Martin," McLaren described.

"It appears that only Valentino Rossi and Eddie Lawson have achieved consecutive championships with different manufacturers, offering him an opportunity to significantly etch his name in history."

"Undoubtedly, he faces a significant challenge in accomplishing that, but the initial step is to achieve consistency."

"We witnessed Maverick's remarkable performances at COTA, where he secured victories, achieving an impressive double win that appeared to baffle even him regarding his exceptional success at that circuit, and yet, he never returned to the podium following those triumphs. It all boils down to consistency."

"Consistency may not be the most exciting term or concept, but it truly is the key to securing championships, especially in a season that spans over 40 races. This was clearly demonstrated this year when Martin, despite winning fewer Grand Prix races than Bagnaia, managed to come out on top."

A crucial element in attaining greater consistency will involve making more effective use of the 2024-spec Michelin rear tire, an aspect of the past season that only Ducati managed to fully capitalize on.

"Lewis Duncan, a journalist at Crash.net, pointed out that Aprilia's main focus with Martin […] should be to understand the ways in which the 2024 Ducati managed to optimize the performance of the 2024 Michelin rear tyre."

"The critical point for Aprilia, according to conversations with KTM and Aprilia riders, revolves around a bit of uncertainty. They believe that the issues they encountered this season were not present last season. As a result, it seems there's only one place to point the finger for this year's challenges—the introduction of the new rear tyre.

"The issue isn't with the quality of the rear tire. Rather, the latest rear tire offers significantly increased grip, a feature that only Ducati managed to fully exploit."

"After they uncovered its possibilities, no one else managed to do so."

It's understood that KTM faced significant issues with vibrations, which were probably connected to the rear tire, and Honda experienced similar troubles. Ducati also encountered this at the start, though there's little recollection of Aprilia riders reporting vibration problems. However, Aprilia had its own set of challenges, including problems with grip, traction, and rapid wear and tear during Grand Prix races.

The ability to quickly accelerate was present, and their speed in short races was satisfactory, but when it came to longer races, they faced difficulties.

Hearing Aleix Espargaro's comments in Malaysia, it was clear he was clueless. Aprilia's expectation from Martin, at the bare minimum, revolves around this notion — if they're banking on the 2024 rear tyre being a game-changer, then they have someone familiar with its effectiveness on a motorcycle that capitalized on it.

Nonetheless, although it's apparent what steps Aprilia must take leading up to the 2025 Thai Grand Prix in early March, accomplishing these will be made difficult due to staff changes at Noale during the winter season.

Marco Bezzecchi and Martin are not the only newcomers at the factory; Fabiano Sterlacchini has also joined as the new technical director, taking over from the outgoing Romano Albesiano.

Duncan stated, "Aprilia must undertake this with a fresh roster of riders and a new technical head, as Fabiano Sterlacchini has stepped in to fill the position previously held by [Romano] Albesiano."

"Sterlacchini parted ways with the KTM project in June, leaving behind a motorcycle [KTM RC16] that he struggled to optimize, particularly in maximizing the performance of the rear tire. They're facing a significant off-season, and the initial tests are poised to be quite revealing."

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Giacomo Agostini offers his perspective on the competition between Marc Marquez and Valentino Rossi

"Their ages were different…"

Giacomo Agostini, who has clinched the World Championship title 15 times, shared his perspective on the competition between Marc Marquez and Valentino Rossi.

In the annals of Grand Prix racing, Agostini stands out as the sole competitor with a higher number of race victories than Rossi. However, since Marquez entered the premier class in 2013, he outperformed the Italian in the championship standings every season except for two instances (2015, 2020), securing six championships in his initial seven seasons at the top level.

"Marc [Marquez] is the one who really gets to me," Agostini confessed to the Spanish outlet Relevo, "because I believe he brings a thrill to the audience, to those who attend the races. He's someone who really knows how to entertain, and he's adored by all."

"Agostini described Rossi as 'a legend',"

"A strategist on horseback. Achieving nine world championships signifies inherent skill."

Agostini attributes the lack of direct confrontations on the track between the two, particularly beyond the year 2015, to timing and Marquez's personal approach.

Nonetheless, it remains one of the fiercest competitions in MotoGP over the last decade.

"He mentioned that their ages were different," he explained. "One had begun their journey, while the other hadn't. This might have influenced the outcome, you see?"

"While I acknowledge that Rossi has sparked excitement […] Upon reflection, I personally find Marquez to be more impulsive, adventurous, and courageous.

"He embodies resilience, which might appeal more to the audience. Marc consistently shows determination, providing an absolute show."

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Lorenzo Savadori Secures Continued Position as Aprilia MotoGP Test Rider with Latest Contract Renewal

Aprilia has officially announced the renewal of Lorenzo Savadori's contract, maintaining his position as the MotoGP test rider for the team.

Lorenzo Savadori has extended his tenure as Aprilia's designated MotoGP test rider, securing a fresh contract with the Noale-based team for an additional two years.

Under the terms of the recent agreement, Savadori will continue in his position through to the close of 2026, marking his seventh consecutive year as a test rider and coinciding with the last year of the existing 1,000cc MotoGP rules.

"I'm thrilled to extend this journey and carry on with my efforts alongside Aprilia Racing for the coming two seasons," Savadori expressed.

"Over the past few years, our performance has been exceptional, and I am confident that we will keep getting better as time goes on."

"Our progress has been steady and incremental, guided by a singular focus that is always at the forefront of our thinking: elevating the RS-GP to the pinnacle of MotoGP competition."

Massimo Rivola, the CEO of Aprilia Racing, emphasized the critical role that Savadori will play as a test rider for the team, especially this year when Aprilia introduces two new racers: Marco Bezzecchi and the current MotoGP World Champion, Jorge Martin. Furthermore, Rivola confirmed that Savadori is set to participate as a wildcard entry in select Grand Prix events in 2025.

"Rivola expressed delight in announcing that Aprilia Racing will maintain its collaboration with Lorenzo Savadori, who is a cornerstone of our initiative. His role, in conjunction with the test team, has significantly contributed to the remarkable progress made in recent years."

"Sava' symbolizes a sense of ongoing partnership for us, which is crucial when collaborating with a deeply trusted test rider, particularly in a significant year when the factory team will welcome two new members.

"He will also serve as a crucial asset at several Grand Prix events, where his role as a wild card will allow for the exploration of innovative approaches."

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Augusto Fernandez has inked a contract until 2025, following his departure from KTM's MotoGP team, to become a test rider for Yamaha's MotoGP endeavor.

Augusto Fernandez is set to join the Yamaha MotoGP team in the role of a test rider, as officially announced.

After concluding his two-season tenure in MotoGP at the end of the 2024 season, Fernandez, who was released by KTM and the Tech3 squad, is set to team up with Cal Crutchlow in Yamaha's primary MotoGP testing crew.

In his initial two seasons competing in MotoGP, the Spanish rider's top performance was securing a fourth-place finish at the 2023 French Grand Prix. Transitioning to KTM's carbon frame in 2024 did not facilitate progress from his first year at the top tier for the Spaniard. However, due to Yamaha’s present concessions status, he is eligible to participate in as many as six wildcard races in 2025.

"Fernandez expressed his joy and immense enthusiasm about becoming a test rider for Yamaha in 2025."

"I'm immensely grateful to join the Yamaha team, and I extend my thanks to all those who played a role in making this possible."

"In this incredible new initiative, I am committed to assisting Yamaha in regaining their rightful position."

Lin Jarvis, the Managing Director at Yamaha Racing, elaborated that in the event of an injury sidelining one of their four racers in 2025, Fernandez will be the go-to substitute rider. Furthermore, it was hinted that Fernandez is slated to participate in all six of Yamaha's wildcard races.

"Yamaha is focused on advancing our bike technology as we strive to quickly get back to a winning position," stated Jarvis.

"We've officially brought Augusto on board as an additional Yamaha Test Rider, joining forces with Cal Crutchlow. Due to Cal's inability to meet all his testing responsibilities in 2024, it became clear that we required another rider to help us carry out all vital tasks for 2025."

"Our team is confident that Augusto will seamlessly integrate with the Yamaha Factory Racing MotoGP Test Team as well as adapt well to the YZR-M1 motorcycle. Being young and quick, he has the opportunity to work closely with Cal and pick up the unique techniques needed for a dedicated test rider."

Our present performance status enables us to fully utilize the upper cap of the testing program. Beyond these tests, we plan to engage in as many as six wild-card entries. Moreover, Augusto will serve as the primary substitute rider for any members of the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team or the Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP Team who might be unavailable to compete at any point during 2025.

The numerous chances to ride should enable Augusto to keep up his pace in racing as he continues with his demanding testing commitments.

"Augusto has already begun collaborating with our team behind the scenes, and his initial genuine trial will occur during the shakedown test in Sepang, scheduled for the end of January 2025."

"Currently, we are closely monitoring Cal's recovery process regarding his arm problems encountered this year, with the expectation that he can swiftly come back to continue with his testing responsibilities."

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KTM terminates former racing star from testing position

Jeremy McWilliams has been removed from his longstanding position as a test rider for KTM.

Ex-Grand Prix competitor Jeremy McWilliams has allegedly been let go from his position as a test rider for KTM, a job he has maintained for a decade and a half.

McWilliams, famously recognized for securing the last pole position on a 500cc motorcycle during the premier class at the 2002 Australian Grand Prix, has held a position at KTM since 2009.

As reported by Speedweek, a German news outlet, McWilliams' contract with KTM, initially set to expire at the end of 2025, has been abruptly ended due to KTM facing financial difficulties. This brings to a close a 15-year partnership between the Mattighofen-based company and the rider from Belfast.

Serving as a test rider for KTM, McWilliams has primarily engaged in testing production models. However, he also played a part in the initial development phase of the RC16.

Lately, McWilliams has played a key role in creating the latest sports model from the Austrian company, the RC 990. This bike is KTM's contender in the Supersport categories, aiming to compete with major models such as the Ducati Panigale V2, Kawasaki ZX-6R, and Yamaha R9.

Prior to joining KTM, McWilliams was part of the BMW S1000RR initiative, where he contributed to the early development stages of the motorcycle. This bike, particularly in its latest M Power version, has since claimed victory in the World Superbike Championship with Toprak Razgatlioglu at the helm.

Recently, the racer from Northern Ireland has also shown strong performance in various competitions. He secured a podium finish in the second Supertwin race at this year's North West 200. Additionally, as a factory rider for Indian in the MotoAmerica King of the Baggers series, which features high-displacement touring motorcycles, he has been in contention for wins.

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