Current Status of Michael Schumacher: Insights into the F1 Icon

Michael Schumacher, an iconic figure in the world of Formula 1, is celebrated as one of the most outstanding motorsport drivers in history.

Schumacher's existence took a tragic turn following a severe skiing mishap on December 29, 2013.

Since then, the seven-time world champion has remained away from the public spotlight, and details about his health have been closely guarded, with only occasional updates from his family.

What occurred with Schumacher?

Schumacher was critically injured following a skiing accident with his son Mick at the Meribel ski resort in France on December 29, 2013.

At the age of 44, he had recently stepped away from Formula 1 for the second time, concluding his comeback with Mercedes, which spanned from 2010 to 2012, just as the prior season ended.

Schumacher, who had a helmet on during his fall, when his head struck a rock, sustained severe brain injuries and was comatose upon his arrival at a hospital in France.

He was quickly taken into surgery, followed by a subsequent procedure overnight.

According to a report by Germany's Bild newspaper, Schumacher's health had deteriorated, leading surgeons to perform a procedure where they drilled into his skull to alleviate brain pressure.

Reports indicate that Schumacher was able to leave the scene of the accident on his own, mentioning he felt somewhat unsettled.

In September 2014, Schumacher was transferred from Grenoble to a larger facility, before being taken back to his home in Switzerland to further his rehabilitation.

What is the current state of Schumacher's health?

The Schumacher family has chosen to keep the health details of the 54-year-old private, stating that this is what he would have wanted.

In 2014, The Telegraph disclosed that Schumacher was confined to a wheelchair and unable to move.

In September 2021, the family offered a scarce update coinciding with the launch of a Netflix documentary chronicling the life of the F1 icon.

Corinna Schumacher, wife of the racing legend who has won 91 grand prix races, mentioned that although he has changed, he is still present.

"Every day, he demonstrates his strength to me," Corinna shared. "As a family, we're doing our best to move forward."

She also mentioned, "We share a home and engage in therapy sessions."

We strive in every possible way to improve Michael's condition and ensure his comfort. We aim to truly let him experience the warmth and closeness of our family connection.

"Regardless of the situation, I am committed to doing all that is within my power. This is a sentiment we all share. Meanwhile, we continue to move forward with our lives."

German news outlets have revealed, just before the decade mark since his skiing mishap in late-2023, that Schumacher is under round-the-clock supervision by a crew of as many as 15 individuals. He has been transported in a Mercedes vehicle and exposed to audio clips from F1 races, in an effort to engage his brain with recognizable sounds.

Mick Schumacher, son of Schumacher, has emulated his father's career path by joining Formula 1 with the Haas team in 2021, following his victory in the F2 championship.

At 23, he dedicated two seasons to Formula 1 racing with Haas, achieving his highest position, sixth place, at the Austrian Grand Prix in 2022. Presently, he serves as the third driver for Mercedes, the same team where his father concluded his racing career.

In March 2017, Mick opened up for the first time about his father, referring to him as "my hero" and "the person I look up to".

In the Netflix documentary about Schumacher, Mick revealed he would sacrifice anything for the opportunity to discuss racing with his father Michael.

Jean Todt, the previous Ferrari leader and former head of the FIA, disclosed that he spends time viewing Formula 1 competitions alongside Michael Schumacher, highlighting that he is among the limited circle permitted to see him.

"Todt expressed to German television station RTL that he doesn't feel the absence of Michael because he is able to see him. However, he does yearn for the activities they once shared."

"Indeed, I do follow the races alongside Michael."

Former team leader Eddie Jordan, who was instrumental in launching Schumacher's Formula One career, is barred from visiting but supports the family's choice.

"He described the scenario as utterly terrifying for Mick and Corinna to The Sun."

"For almost a decade, Corinna has found herself unable to attend any social events, whether it be parties or casual lunches. She feels trapped, as conversations inevitably turn to Michael, a topic she doesn’t need constant reminders of."

What information is available regarding Michael Schumacher?

In 2023, Felix Damm, the attorney for Schumacher, provided an explanation for why there was never a conclusive update shared about the health status of the Formula 1 icon.

"He mentioned, "Our main concern was safeguarding personal matters. We debated if releasing a final statement regarding Michael's health status might be an appropriate method to achieve that.

"However, that wouldn't have marked the conclusion. Instead, there would have been a continuous need for updated reports on the water levels, and the family wouldn’t have had control over when the media attention ceased."

"The media might repeatedly revisit and spotlight this report, questioning 'how does the situation stand now?' whether it's one, two, three months, or even years following the initial announcement," he further explained. "Should we decide to contest this coverage, we'd find ourselves confronting the challenge of having willingly disclosed the information."

"When private details are shared by friends or acquaintances instead of the individual in question, this situation cannot be classified as 'voluntary self-disclosure' of personal information."

Towards the end of 2024, Lewis Hamilton penned a heartfelt introduction for a publication dedicated to Schumacher.

The publication, "World Championship Cars: Michael Schumacher," delves into the vehicles the F1 icon piloted over his illustrious career.

In his book, Hamilton expressed: "Michael stands as an icon in our sport. For those of us who nurtured a love for motorsport from a young age, there were always certain figures we admired, and unquestionably, Michael served as an inspiration for aspiring drivers.

"His agility, dedication to his craft, unwavering resolve, and steady performance – the duration of his career and his peak achievements are truly commendable."

Hamilton remarked, “Regarding Michael's legacy, my attention is more on his character than his rivalry.

It's more about the bond and family he and Corinna have built than any awards or accolades.

"Their exceptional nature, modesty, and genuineness speak volumes about the principles Michael holds dear, far beyond what I could express."

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Current Status of Michael Schumacher: Insights into the F1 Icon

The iconic Michael Schumacher is celebrated as one of the most outstanding Formula 1 drivers in the annals of racing history.

On December 29, 2013, Schumacher's life took a tragic turn due to a severe skiing accident.

Since then, the seven-time world champion has remained away from the public spotlight, and details about his health have been closely guarded, with his family releasing only occasional updates.

What occurred with Schumacher?

Schumacher sustained severe injuries following a skiing mishap with his son Mick in the French ski destination of Meribel on December 29, 2013.

At the age of 44, he had recently concluded his second retirement from Formula 1, following a comeback with Mercedes from 2010 to 2012, which marked the end of the preceding season.

Schumacher, who had on a helmet at the time of his accident where he collided head-first with a rock, sustained severe brain injuries and was comatose upon admission to a hospital in France.

He was quickly taken into surgery, followed by another procedure overnight.

According to a report by Germany's Bild newspaper, Schumacher's health had deteriorated, prompting surgeons to perform a procedure where they bored holes into his skull to alleviate brain pressure.

Reports indicate that Schumacher was able to leave the scene of the accident on his own, mentioning he felt somewhat rattled.

Schumacher was transferred to a larger institution in Grenoble prior to being taken back to Switzerland for ongoing rehabilitation in September 2014.

What is the current state of Schumacher's health?

The Schumacher family keeps a respectful quiet regarding the 54-year-old's condition, stating that this is what he would have wanted.

In 2014, it was reported by The Telegraph that Schumacher was unable to walk and confined to a wheelchair.

In September 2021, the family offered an uncommon insight following the debut of a Netflix documentary that explores the life of the F1 icon.

Corinna Schumacher, the wife of the Formula One legend who has won 91 grand prix races, mentioned that although he has changed, he is still present with them.

"Every day, he demonstrates his strength to me," Corinna mentioned. "As a family, we're striving to move forward."

She also mentioned, "We share a home and engage in therapy sessions."

We strive to improve Michael's condition and ensure his comfort, while also making him sense the warmth and connection of our family.

"Regardless of the circumstances, I am committed to doing all within my power. We are all in this together. Meanwhile, we continue to move forward with our lives."

German news outlets have disclosed, in anticipation of the decade mark since his skiing mishap in late-2023, that Schumacher is under constant, round-the-clock attention from a dedicated team comprising as many as 15 professionals. To aid in stimulating his mind with recognizable sounds, he has been transported in a Mercedes automobile and exposed to audio from F1 races.

Mick, the son of Schumacher, has emulated his father by entering Formula 1 with Haas in 2021, having secured the F2 championship prior.

At 23 years old, after a two-year stint in Formula 1 racing with Haas, his top achievement came with a sixth-place finish at the Austrian Grand Prix in 2022. He now serves as the third driver for Mercedes, the same team where his father concluded his racing career.

In March 2017, Mick openly shared his thoughts about his father for the first time, referring to him as “my hero” and “my example to follow”.

In the Netflix documentary about Schumacher, Mick revealed that he would sacrifice it all just for the opportunity to discuss racing with his dad, Michael.

Jean Todt, the previous leader of Ferrari and former head of the FIA, disclosed that he enjoys Formula 1 races in the company of Schumacher and is among the limited group permitted to see him.

"Todt mentioned to German broadcaster RTL, "Michael isn't someone I miss seeing. However, I do long for the activities we once shared.

"Indeed, I do observe the competitions alongside Michael."

Eddie Jordan, the former team leader who provided Schumacher with his initial opportunity in F1, is prohibited from visiting but concurs with the family's choice.

"He described the situation as utterly dreadful for Mick and Corinna to The Sun."

For almost a decade, Corinna has found herself unable to attend any social gatherings like parties or lunches. She feels trapped because people invariably want to discuss Michael with her, a topic she doesn't wish to be constantly reminded of.

What information is available regarding Michael Schumacher?

In 2023, Schumacher's attorney, Felix Damm, provided an explanation for the absence of an official health statement on the Formula 1 icon's condition.

"He emphasized the importance of safeguarding personal matters," he explained. "The idea of preparing a conclusive document on Michael's well-being was explored as a potential strategy for achieving this."

"However, that wouldn't have marked the conclusion. There would have been an ongoing need for 'water level updates,' and the family wouldn't have been able to dictate when the media's fascination with the story ceased."

"The media might repeatedly revisit and spotlight the report, inquiring 'how does the situation stand now?' whether it's one, two, three months, or even years following the initial announcement," he noted. "Should we choose to challenge this coverage, we'd then be confronted with the counterargument that we had willingly made the information public."

"When private details are revealed by friends or acquaintances rather than the individual in question, this does not constitute a 'voluntary self-disclosure' of personal information."

Towards the end of 2024, Lewis Hamilton penned a homage that served as the introductory section for a publication dedicated to Schumacher.

The publication, titled "World Championship Cars: Michael Schumacher," delves into the vehicles that the Formula 1 icon piloted during his illustrious career.

In his book, Hamilton remarked, "Michael stands as an icon in our field. For those of us who were nurtured with a deep love for racing, there are always certain individuals we admire, and undeniably, Michael served as an inspiration for the younger racers.

"His quickness, dedication to his job, unwavering resolve, and steady performance – the span of his career and his peak achievements are truly commendable."

Hamilton remarked, "Regarding Michael's legacy, my emphasis is on his character rather than his competitive nature."

It revolves around the bond and the family unit he formed with Corinna, rather than accolades or awards.

"Michael's values are better reflected through their remarkable character, modesty, and honesty than any words I could express."

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Current Insights on Michael Schumacher: Unveiling the F1 Icon

Michael Schumacher, an icon in Formula 1, is celebrated as one of the most exceptional motorsport racers in history.

Schumacher's existence took a tragic turn following a severe skiing mishap on December 29, 2013.

Since his last appearance, the family of the seven-time world champion has maintained privacy regarding his health, offering only infrequent updates on his condition.

What occurred with Schumacher?

Following a skiing mishap on December 29, 2013, at the French ski resort of Meribel, Schumacher sustained severe injuries while skiing alongside his son, Mick.

At the age of 44, the individual had just recently concluded their second retirement from Formula 1, after making a comeback and racing for Mercedes from 2010 to 2012.

Schumacher, adorned with a helmet at the time of his accident, sustained severe brain injuries after his head collided with a rock. Upon reaching a hospital in France, he was in a comatose state.

He was rushed into surgery right away, followed by another procedure overnight.

According to a report by Germany's Bild newspaper, Schumacher's health had deteriorated, leading surgeons to perform a procedure where they drilled into his skull to alleviate brain pressure.

Reports indicate that Schumacher was able to leave the scene of the accident on his own, mentioning he felt slightly unsettled.

Schumacher was transferred to a larger institution in Grenoble prior to being taken back to Switzerland to proceed with his recuperation in September 2014.

What is the current state of Schumacher's health?

The family of Schumacher chooses to keep details of the 54-year-old's condition private, stating that this would reflect his desires.

In 2014, according to The Telegraph, Schumacher was confined to a wheelchair and unable to move.

In September 2021, the family offered an infrequent update coinciding with the launch of a Netflix documentary detailing the life of the F1 icon.

Corinna Schumacher described her husband, the winner of 91 grand prix races, as "changed, yet present."

"Every day, he continues to demonstrate his strength," Corinna expressed. "As a family, we're doing our best to keep going."

She also mentioned, "We share a living space and undergo counseling together."

We strive in every way to improve Michael's condition and ensure his comfort. Moreover, we aim to envelop him in the warmth and connection of our family.

"Regardless of the situation, I'm committed to doing all that's within my power. We all are. And we're moving forward with our lives.”

German outlets have disclosed, just before the decade mark since his skiing mishap in late-2023, that Schumacher is under constant supervision by a dedicated crew of as many as 15 individuals. He has been transported in a Mercedes vehicle, and exposed to audio recordings from Formula 1 races, in an effort to engage his mind with recognizable sounds.

Mick Schumacher, the son of the renowned racer, has emulated his father's career path, stepping into Formula 1 with the Haas team in 2021, following his triumph in the F2 championship.

At 23 years of age, he dedicated two seasons to racing for Haas in Formula 1, achieving his highest placement of sixth at the Austrian Grand Prix in 2022. Presently, he serves as the third driver for Mercedes, the same team where his father concluded his racing career.

In March 2017, Mick opened up for the first time about his dad, referring to him as “my hero” and “the person I look up to”.

In the Netflix documentary about Schumacher, Mick expressed his willingness to sacrifice it all merely for an opportunity to discuss racing with his father Michael.

Jean Todt, the previous head of Ferrari and former president of the FIA, disclosed that he is among the limited circle permitted to see Michael Schumacher. He mentioned that they enjoy Formula 1 races together.

"Todt conveyed to German TV network RTL that he doesn't feel the absence of Michael because he can still visit him. However, he does long for the activities they used to share.

"Indeed, I do enjoy viewing the competitions alongside Michael."

Former team leader Eddie Jordan, who provided Schumacher with his initial opportunity in Formula 1, is barred from visiting but concurs with the family's choice.

"He described the ordeal faced by Mick and Corinna as utterly dreadful to The Sun."

For almost a decade, Corinna has found herself unable to participate in social events like parties or lunches. She feels trapped, as people constantly seek to discuss Michael with her, a topic she prefers not to be reminded of constantly.

What information do we have concerning Michael Schumacher?

In 2023, Schumacher's attorney, Felix Damm, clarified the reasons behind the absence of a conclusive health update on the Formula 1 icon.

"He emphasized that the primary concern was safeguarding personal matters. They deliberated on whether releasing an ultimate analysis regarding Michael's well-being might be an effective method to achieve that."

"However, that would not have marked the conclusion, as ongoing updates on the 'water levels' would have been required, and the family wouldn't have had control over when the media's fascination with the story would cease."

"The media might repeatedly revisit such a report, posing questions like 'how does the situation stand now?' a month, two, three, or even years following the initial announcement," he further stated. "Should we decide to challenge this coverage, we'd then be confronted with the claim that we had willingly revealed this information ourselves."

"When private information is shared by friends or acquaintances rather than the individual in question, it does not constitute a scenario of 'willingly revealing one's own privacy'."

Towards the end of 2024, Lewis Hamilton penned a heartfelt dedication that served as the introductory piece to a book focused on Schumacher.

The publication, titled "World Championship Cars: Michael Schumacher," delves into the vehicles that the iconic F1 star piloted over his illustrious career.

In his book, Hamilton stated: "Michael stands as a towering figure in the realm of racing. For those of us who developed a love for motorsport from a young age, there were certain individuals we admired, and Michael unquestionably served as an inspiration for aspiring drivers.

"His quickness, dedication, perseverance, and reliability – the duration of his career and his peak performance are truly commendable."

Hamilton stated, "Regarding Michael's legacy, though, my attention is on his character rather than his rivalry.

It's more about the bond and family life he and Corinna built together than it is about winning titles or awards.

"Their exceptional qualities, modesty, and genuine nature speak volumes about Michael's principles far beyond what I could express."

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Moto2 titleholder Ai Ogura felt "anxious" while riding alongside MotoGP legends during his first test run. "I thought it would be more astonishing than it actually was," he admitted.

Moto2 world champion Ai Ogura confessed that he felt "nervous" when he participated in his inaugural test with Trackhouse Racing, sharing the circuit with MotoGP's elite riders on Tuesday in Barcelona.

During the summer, the Japanese racer inked a two-year contract with the Aprilia satellite team, setting the stage for his MotoGP debut in 2025. This agreement has proven to be an excellent move, especially after his triumph in the Moto2 championship.

On Tuesday, Ogura participated in his first MotoGP session during the post-Solidarity GP test, where he rode 86 laps on the RS-GP model designed for the 2024 season.

He concluded the day as the second-fastest among the three newcomers, finishing in 21st place. However, during the initial hours of the session, he experienced a minor incident at Turn 2.

Reflecting on his inaugural experience riding a MotoGP bike, Ogura remarked, "Naturally, seeing all these riders out on the track, along with a few cameras, made me feel anxious. However, it was something I could handle."

When questioned about the most significant contrast between Moto2 and MotoGP, he highlighted the necessity to master throttle control to stabilize the bike as the primary challenge he faces.

He mentioned that his main challenge right now is entering corners.

"Perhaps the most challenging aspect for me was managing the throttle to maintain the bike's stability and achieve smooth acceleration. It's somewhat different."

"My initial focus is on improving the braking process. I need to enhance my understanding of everything from the moment I start braking to when I accelerate. This area is my top priority for improvement."

Newcomers frequently mention that the strength of MotoGP engines and the effectiveness of carbon brakes are surprising aspects when they transition from Moto2 for the first time.

Contrary to what might be expected, Ogura expressed that the experience was satisfactory. He stated, "It was fine. I anticipated feeling more surprised, but after completing a couple of laps, I had already adjusted to the speed."

"There isn't much of a difference between steel brakes and carbon brakes. It's not a significant issue for me."

Ogura mentioned that he plans to enhance his fitness regimen during the winter months to prepare for the transition to MotoGP. Despite completing 86 laps on Tuesday, he reported not feeling overly fatigued.

He stated, "I completed 86 laps today, with the longest stretch being approximately 10 laps."

"For this song, I was feeling fine and had no issues with my physical condition."

"I didn’t manage to do 20 consecutive laps today, so we'll have to wait and see. I'm feeling alright, though, and plan to train harder this winter compared to last year."

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MotoGP 2025: A Look at the Rider and Crew Chief Partnerships

An overview of the rider and crew chief duos for the 2025 MotoGP season

The 2025 MotoGP lineup has undergone significant changes, as many riders have either moved to different teams or are making their debut in the series.

When a team undergoes changes, it often means getting a new crew chief for some members, while others remain in place and greet new technicians in their pit areas.

The list below details the pairings of crew chiefs and riders for each team in the year 2025.

Ducati's official racing team includes Marc Marquez, paired with Marco Rigamonti, and Francesco Bagnaia, who works alongside Cristian Gabarrini.

Eight-time world champion Marc Marquez is joining the factory Ducati team, marking his third different crew chief in three seasons.

At the conclusion of 2023, Marquez departed from Honda and Santi Hernandez to join forces with Frankie Carchedi at Gresini for the 2024 season. However, his move to the Ducati factory team did not maintain that partnership, as the Italian team decided to team him up with Marco Rigamonti, who previously worked as Enea Bastianini’s crew chief.

Rigamonti has had past experience collaborating with Andrea Iannone during their time together at Ducati and Suzuki, and has also worked with Johann Zarco while he was part of the Avintia and Pramac Ducati teams.

Gabarrini has served as the crew chief for Francesco Bagnaia during his time as MotoGP champion. Previously, he has also collaborated with Casey Stoner and Jorge Lorenzo.

Honda's official racing team includes Joan Mir paired with Santi Hernandez, and Luca Marini teamed up with Christian Pupulin.

Following Marc Marquez's departure from Honda to join Gresini Ducati at the conclusion of last year, Joan Mir assumed leadership of Hernandez, his crew chief.

Luca Marini's team has seen a change in leadership with Christian Pupulin stepping in as the new crew chief, replacing Giacomo Guidotti. Guidotti has moved on to join Pramac, where he will be working alongside Jack Miller. Before this shift, Pupulin was part of the KTM team, collaborating with the Australian rider.

Factory Racing Team of Aprilia Jorge Martin – Daniele Romagnoli Marco Bezzecchi – Francesco Venturato

Jorge Martin, the newly crowned MotoGP champion, is joining the factory Aprilia team and will be accompanied by Daniele Romagnoli, who is also making the move from Pramac.

Marco Bezzecchi has moved on from collaborating with Matteo Flamigni at VR46. He is now teaming up with Francesco Venturato at Aprilia, who previously served as the performance engineer for Maverick Vinales this year.

KTM's official racing team

Racers: Pedro Acosta with crew chief Paul Trevathan, and Brad Binder with crew chief Andres Madrid

Pedro Acosta is a fresh addition to the factory KTM team, and he is joined by crew chief Paul Trevathan, who previously worked with him at Tech 3. Meanwhile, Brad Binder continues his collaboration with Andrea Madrid.

Gresini Team

Fermin Aldeguer – Frankie Carchedi

Alex Marquez – Donatello Giovanotti

MotoGP newcomer Aldeguer is set to collaborate with Frankie Carchedi, who previously served as Marc Marquez's crew chief, this season. Meanwhile, Alex Marquez will maintain his partnership with Donatello Giovanotti.

Yamaha Racing Team

Fabio Quartararo – Diego Gubellini

Alex Rins – David Munoz

Fabio Quartararo continues to collaborate with Diego Gubellini, his crew chief since he entered MotoGP in 2019. Meanwhile, David Munoz, who previously worked with Valentino Rossi and Fabio Di Giannantonio, joins Alex Rins, taking over from Patrick Primmer.

VR46 Team

Franco Morbidelli – Matteo Flamigni

Fabio Di Giannantonio – Massimo Branchini

Veteran mechanic Matteo Flamigni, who worked closely with Valentino Rossi and previously served as Marco Bezzecchi's crew chief, is set to collaborate with Franco Morbidelli as he transitions to VR46. Meanwhile, Fabio Di Giannantonio teams up with Massimo Branchini, marking his fourth crew chief partnership in as many years.

In 2024, Branchini served as the crew chief for Morbidelli at Pramac.

Tech3 Team

Riders: Enea Bastianini, Maverick Vinales

Crew Chiefs: Alberto Giribuola, Manuel Cazeaux

Next year, Enea Bastianini will join the Tech3 KTM team, where he will once again work with Alberto Giribuola, who was his crew chief at Gresini in 2022.

Maverick Vinales has taken Manu Cazeaux along from Aprilia.

Pramac

Miguel Oliveira – Luca Ferracioli

Jack Miller – Giacomi Guidotti

In 2025, Pramac will introduce a completely new team for its first appearance with Yamaha, including the addition of two fresh crew chiefs. Miguel Oliveira will collaborate with Luca Ferracioli, who was previously partnered with Luca Marini during his debut season in 2021.

Giacomo Guidotti is parting ways with Honda to collaborate with Jack Miller in the upcoming year.

Trackhouse

Raul Fernandez – Noe Herrera

Ai Ogura – Giovanni Mattarollo

MotoGP newcomer Ai Ogura is set to collaborate with Giovanni Mattarollo, who previously served as the crew chief for Miguel Oliveira. Meanwhile, Raul Fernandez will maintain his partnership with Noe Herrera.

LCR Team

Johann Zarco – David Garcia

Somkiat Chantra – Klaus Nohles

Johann Zarco is staying with David Garcia for his second season at LCR Honda. Meanwhile, Somkiat Chantra, a newcomer to MotoGP, will work with Klaus Nohles, who was previously Takaaki Nakagami's crew chief.

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Franco Morbidelli discusses his first appearance with VR46, saying, "There's something special we possess, and it's important for us to make the most of it."

Franco Morbidelli is enthusiastic about making the most of his 'special' connection with VR46 as he joins Valentino Rossi's MotoGP team for the 2025 season.

The Italian rider, who became the VR46 Academy's inaugural world champion in the Moto2 category in 2017 and clinched a MotoGP race victory in 2020, is transitioning from the Pramac team.

Alongside being in a well-known environment, Morbidelli is among the select riders who will retain the same model of motorcycle for the 2025 season.

This year, Morbidelli rode a factory Desmosedici GP24 for Pramac, the same model his teammate Jorge Martin used to clinch the championship. Unfortunately, Morbidelli missed the entire pre-season testing period because of head injuries.

The ex-Yamaha title contender secured a spot on the podium during the Sprint race at Misano, achieved fourth place in the Indonesian Grand Prix, and finished ninth overall in the championship rankings.

He made his first appearance with Pertamina VR46, finishing in seventh position, just 0.762 seconds behind, during Tuesday's test in Barcelona.

"Morbidelli mentioned that it was crucial to meet the individuals he will collaborate with in the upcoming year."

This group features Matteo Flamigni, who was previously the chief of Marco Bezzecchi's team and used to work as Valentino Rossi's electronic engineer.

Morbidelli expressed that it is a significant privilege to collaborate with team members he has been acquainted with for several years.

"I have admired Matteo since my childhood. He left a mark in history alongside Vale while working as his electronics engineer, and we shared a great connection."

Morbidelli expressed: "I deeply respect everyone on the team, and the understanding we share among ourselves is truly special. We must harness this remarkable synergy to its fullest potential."

"We should utilize it to quickly build relationships and establish connections to reach our goals efficiently."

The launch on Tuesday went smoothly and successfully.

"It was an excellent start to the day," Morbidelli remarked. "We made several adjustments to the motorcycle to gain insights and enhance the understanding between myself and the team."

"That will be the key factor next year. The more we understand each other during these challenging times, the more effectively we will perform and respond during race weekends."

"The environment is enjoyable, and all the necessary elements for success are present. We put in a lot of effort, and I chose not to use the soft tire at the end because it was too cold to enhance our lap time. All in all, it's been an excellent beginning."

What about the unique types of leather?

"Stunning. I'd love to see additional pictures since they were truly delightful."

Fabio di Giannantonio, who is on the same team as Morbidelli, was absent from the test because he recently underwent surgery on his shoulder.

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Driver evaluations from the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix: Lando Norris demonstrates his ability to thrive under stress. Who stood out as the top performer at the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi event?

Lando Norris – 9.5

Norris's performance in Abu Dhabi might be considered his most remarkable win in Formula 1, especially considering the significant pressure he faced. With McLaren relying entirely on him for their constructors' championship ambitions after his teammate, Piastri, was spun out at the first turn, Norris remained composed and secured his fourth victory of the season.

Carlos Sainz – 9

In contrast to his teammate, Carlos Sainz successfully reached Q3 and emerged as the leading contender behind the McLarens during the qualifying session. During the race, Ferrari was missing that crucial extra speed to effectively compete with Norris, resulting in them securing second place in the constructors' championship.

Lewis Hamilton – 9

During the Q1 segment at the Yas Marina Circuit, Hamilton was not to blame for his elimination, which occurred after he accidentally drove over a bollard. In the race, he impressed with an exceptional final run on medium tires, highlighted by an incredible overtake of his teammate Russell, ultimately finishing in fourth place.

Pierre Gasly – 9

Gasly showcased his skills once again with a strong performance in Abu Dhabi. He began the race from fifth position and concluded it as the top driver among the midfield competitors, securing seventh place. It was a commendable way to wrap up the season.

Nico Hulkenberg – 8.5

Similar to Gasly, Hulkenberg had an impressive performance in the F1 midfield over the weekend. The sole downside was a grid penalty he received for passing another car while exiting the pit lane. Other than that, his driving remains exceptional.

Charles Leclerc – 8.5

Starting from 19th position, Leclerc made an impressive climb to eighth place by the end of the first lap in Abu Dhabi. Nevertheless, he is likely to lament the error he made during qualifying, which resulted in his elimination in Q2.

Fernando Alonso – 8.5

Alonso had another weekend that flew under the radar. He secured a spot in the top 10 during both qualifying and the race. Given the current circumstances, Aston Martin couldn't really expect more from him.

George Russell earned a score of 7.5 for his performance. He once again led the Mercedes team during the qualifying rounds, showcasing his consistent Saturday form. Despite this, Hamilton appeared to have the upper hand in Abu Dhabi, managing to close a 14-second gap during the final phase of the race and ultimately finishing in front of Russell.

Alex Albon – 7

Albon was positioned within the top 10 with about 12 laps remaining, but ultimately got overtaken by Alonso and Piastri. Williams didn't have the speed necessary to secure points during this weekend's race.

Yuki Tsunoda – 6.5

Yuki Tsunoda had a rough beginning, which immediately put him at a disadvantage. The driver from Japan suggested that a problem with the clutch might have caused his sluggish start, an issue that also impacted his initial pit stop. Nevertheless, considering the drivers who ended up in the top 10, earning points was a challenging goal for VCARB this weekend.

Kevin Magnussen – 6.5

Magnussen found himself on the less effective two-stop strategy, which ultimately failed to deliver good results. His race took a turn for the worse when Bottas collided with him at Turn 6, effectively destroying his chances.

Oscar Piastri – 6

Piastri was not at fault for the incident with Verstappen at the first corner. If not for an unnecessary collision with Colapinto following the Virtual Safety Car, he likely would have secured at least a seventh-place finish.

Max Verstappen – 6

Verstappen had a tumultuous weekend. He erred on his initial Q3 attempt and later attempted an ambitious move on Piastri, resulting in both drivers spinning.

Liam Lawson – 6

Lawson faced a challenging weekend, as he was once again outpaced by Tsunoda in qualifying for the sixth consecutive race. His race took a turn for the worse due to an improperly secured front-left tire, leading to a 10-second stop-and-go penalty.

Zhou Guanyu received a rating of 5.5. His issues with single-lap performance resurfaced, resulting in his exit during the Q1 session. During the race, he delivered a steady but unremarkable performance and incurred a five-second time penalty due to a false start.

Lance Stroll – 5.5

Stroll began the race on a strong note, but his chances of scoring points gradually diminished. He received a five-second penalty for exceeding track limits.

Franco Colapinto – 5.5

In his last race with Williams, Franco Colapinto did not finish because of an engine failure. Prior to this, he was involved in a collision with Piastri, which resulted in a tire puncture.

Sergio Perez – 5.5

Perez's season concluded fittingly with a Did Not Finish (DNF) during the race's initial lap. He got involved in the chaos at the start, and a crash with Bottas forced him to bow out early.

Jack Doohan – 5.5

Jack Doohan's first Formula 1 race was less than impressive. He lacked speed but managed to avoid any incidents. This race provided valuable experience for the Australian as he looks forward to next season.

Valtteri Bottas – 4.5

Bottas shone during the qualifying rounds, reaching Q3 for only the second time this year. However, the race was chaotic, despite an impressive beginning. An incident with Perez led to a 10-second penalty, and a collision with Magnussen ended his race prematurely. He also received a grid penalty, which he might not have to face if he doesn't come back to Formula 1.

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Current Status of Michael Schumacher: Insights on the F1 Icon

Renowned as one of the top racing drivers in history, Michael Schumacher has cemented his legacy in Formula 1.

However, Schumacher's existence took a drastic turn after he was involved in a terrible skiing accident on December 29, 2013.

The seven-time world champion has remained away from public view since then, with his family providing only infrequent updates about his health, which they have kept confidential.

What occurred with Schumacher?

Michael Schumacher found himself in a severe condition following a skiing accident with his son Mick at the Meribel ski resort in France on December 29, 2013.

At the age of 44, he had recently retired from Formula 1 for the second time after the conclusion of the previous season. His comeback to the racing world was with Mercedes, where he competed from 2010 to 2012.

Schumacher sustained severe brain injuries after falling and striking his head on a rock, despite wearing a helmet. He was in a coma when he was brought to a hospital in France.

He had emergency surgery right away, followed by another procedure later that night.

According to a report by Germany’s Bild newspaper, Schumacher's situation deteriorated, leading doctors to perform a procedure involving drilling holes in his skull to alleviate brain pressure.

Reports indicate that Schumacher managed to leave the scene of the accident on his own, mentioning only that he felt somewhat unsettled.

In September 2014, Schumacher was transferred to a larger facility in Grenoble and later taken back to his home in Switzerland to further his recovery.

What is Schumacher's current condition?

The Schumacher family has chosen to stay silent regarding the 54-year-old's health, respecting his desire for privacy.

In 2014, The Telegraph published a report stating that Schumacher was unable to move and confined to a wheelchair.

In September 2021, the family offered an uncommon update coinciding with the debut of a Netflix documentary detailing the life of the F1 icon.

Corinna Schumacher, the wife of the legendary racer who has won 91 grand prix events, mentioned that he is "not the same, but he is present."

Corinna expressed that he continues to demonstrate his strength daily. "As a family, we're striving to move forward," she added.

She mentioned, "We share a residence and participate in therapy sessions."

"We are doing all we can to improve Michael's condition and ensure his comfort. Our goal is to make him feel the strength of our family connection and love."

"Regardless of the circumstances, I am committed to doing everything possible. We all share this commitment. Meanwhile, we are moving forward with our lives."

According to reports from the German press, as the 10th anniversary of his skiing accident approaches in late 2023, Schumacher is under constant care provided by a team that could include as many as 15 caregivers. To help trigger brain activity with recognizable sounds, he has been taken for drives in a Mercedes road car and exposed to audio from Formula 1 races.

Mick Schumacher, son of the renowned racer, has embarked on his Formula 1 career with Haas in 2021, following his victory in the F2 championship.

The young driver, aged 23, had a two-year stint in Formula 1 racing with the Haas team, achieving his top result with a sixth-place finish at the Austrian Grand Prix in 2022. Presently, he serves as the reserve driver for Mercedes, the same team where his father concluded his racing career.

In March 2017, Mick spoke openly for the first time about his father, referring to him as "my idol" and "my role model."

In the Netflix documentary about Schumacher, Mick expressed that he "would sacrifice anything" just to have the opportunity to discuss racing with his father, Michael.

Who stops by to see Michael Schumacher?

Jean Todt, who used to lead Ferrari and previously served as the president of the FIA, disclosed that he is among the limited number of people permitted to visit Schumacher and that they watch Formula 1 races together.

"I don't feel Michael's absence because I visit him," Todt shared with German broadcaster RTL. "However, I do long for the activities we once enjoyed together."

Indeed, it's correct—I watch the races alongside Michael.

Eddie Jordan, the former team principal who provided Schumacher with his first significant opportunity in Formula 1, is not permitted to visit but supports the family's choice.

He described it to The Sun as an extremely terrible ordeal for Mick and Corinna.

For almost a decade, Corinna has been unable to attend social events, whether it's a gathering, a meal, or anything else. She feels trapped because people constantly want to discuss Michael with her, even though she doesn't need to be reminded of it all the time.

What information is available on Michael Schumacher?

In 2023, Felix Damm, the attorney representing Schumacher, clarified the reasons for the absence of a conclusive update regarding the health status of the Formula 1 icon.

He mentioned that their main focus was on safeguarding personal matters. They thought about whether releasing a comprehensive report on Michael's health would be an appropriate method to achieve this.

"However, that wouldn't have concluded the situation, as there would have been a need for regular updates on 'water level reports.' Additionally, the family wouldn't have had control over when the media stopped being interested in the story."

He mentioned that the media might repeatedly revisit such a report, asking questions like, "How does the situation appear now?" several months or even years later. He further remarked that if there was any desire to challenge this kind of coverage, it would necessitate addressing the issue of voluntary self-disclosure.

When private details are revealed by friends or acquaintances rather than the individual in question, it does not count as the person willingly sharing their own private information.

At the end of 2024, Lewis Hamilton penned an introductory tribute for a book focusing on Schumacher.

The book titled "World Championship Cars: Michael Schumacher" delves into the various vehicles that the legendary F1 driver, Michael Schumacher, used during his racing career.

In his book, Hamilton stated: "Michael is one of the iconic figures in our sport. For those who grow up with a love for motorsport, certain individuals always stand out, and Michael was undeniably an inspiration for aspiring drivers."

His quickness, strong work ethic, unwavering determination, and consistency throughout his lengthy career and outstanding performance are truly commendable.

Hamilton remarked, "Regarding Michael's legacy, I choose to concentrate on him as an individual rather than as a rival."

The essence lies not in accolades or awards, but in the family that he and Corinna built together.

"Their exceptional qualities, modest nature, and genuine character speak volumes about Michael's principles far better than I could express."

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Martin Brundle reveals his top grid walk moment in Formula 1.

Martin Brundle described his conversation with Mika Hakkinen before one of Hakkinen's Formula 1 championship wins as the highlight of his grid walk experiences.

Beginning in the late 1990s, Brundle's grid walk has become a well-known and beloved segment among fans and viewers globally.

The British individual regularly converses with both race car drivers and various famous personalities on the track prior to the playing of the national

In 2024, Brundle is still conducting his well-known grid walks for Sky Sports in the UK.

During a recent appearance on the Sky F1 podcast, Brundle shared his thoughts on his extensive broadcasting career, with a particular focus on his experiences conducting grid walks.

Brundle described his conversation with Hakkinen as the highlight of his time on the grid.

Mika Hakkinen secured his two Formula 1 championships at the Suzuka circuit, defeating Michael Schumacher in 1998 and Eddie Irvine in 1999.

"In that regard, he mentioned that he would invariably begin with the drivers."

In a conversation with Michael Schumacher and Kimi Raikkonen, we recalled a funny incident that happened in Brazil. One of the standout moments for me occurred at Suzuka, where I was at the front of the starting grid. Mika Hakkinen was in pole position with an opportunity to clinch the world championship, and I arrived just as he was putting on his balaclava.

"We used to be teammates at McLaren and are still quite familiar with each other. He glanced at me, as if urging me on, so I asked him, 'Mika, is it possible for you to clinch the world championship today?' He confidently replied, 'Yes, I can.'"

"The balaclava is pulled down, the helmet is put on, he enters the car, and secures the world championship title."

"In my view, this is a one-of-a-kind chance for broadcasting content. What other sport allows for this?"

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Michael Schumacher was an expert at playing mind games, which left me feeling inadequate. In that environment, kindness was not an option; you had to take advantage of any vulnerability.

Damon Hill has shared insights into his intricate relationship with Michael Schumacher.

Three decades ago, Schumacher secured his inaugural Formula 1 title while driving for Benetton.

In a well-known incident in Australia in 1994, Schumacher and his championship competitor Hill collided and had to withdraw from the race. As neither driver scored any points, Schumacher clinched the championship.

However, many within the Formula 1 community held the future German legend accountable for the incident, which is now seen as a minor detail in the narrative of his notoriously aggressive driving style.

Hill mentioned to Bild that despite having a good relationship with Michael off the track, they had a strong rivalry when racing.

"If you aim to become a Formula 1 world champion, there was and still is no alternative."

"There was no space for politeness. One must take advantage of every vulnerability in their adversary and exhaust them."

Michael excelled at playing mind games. He caused me to doubt my abilities and feel inadequate.

"He informed the media as well. Given his numerous victories at the time, there was every reason to trust his words."

Hill mentioned about his former competitor: "Michael was not only highly competitive, but also a very kind-hearted individual."

Schumacher achieved a historic seven Formula 1 world titles following his legendary period with Ferrari.

Lewis Hamilton has equaled the record and is set to move to Ferrari in 2025, with the ambition of surpassing Schumacher to achieve the highest record of all time.

Hill clinched the F1 title in 1996, two years following his notable clash with Schumacher in Australia.

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For ten years, James worked as a sports reporter for Sky Sports, where he reported on a wide array of sports, including American sports, soccer, and Formula 1.

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Honda is informed that revival isn't solely a financial matter as Aleix Espargaro spearheads testing resurgence

Pol Espargaro outlines strategies for Honda's resurgence

Former racer Pol Espargaro has cautioned Honda that financial investment alone will not be sufficient to return them to the top of MotoGP.

Aleix Espargaro, the sibling of racer Pol, is set to end his racing career and will join Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) as a test rider in 2025, bringing a wealth of experience to the

Honda has been in a prolonged slump, underscored by the departure of Marc Marquez.

Pol Espargaro, who teamed up with Marquez at Honda for two years, stated, "They are making efforts. I'm aware they are putting in the work.

"However, it's not solely focused on labor, materials, or the financial capacity available to achieve the outcome."

"This isn't the issue at hand!"

"Everything is interconnected – the way you operate, the structure of the organization, and the approach to testing, which has become a crucial element in this sport today."

"Participants compete in two races every weekend, leaving them no opportunity for testing during the event. This might have been possible in previous years."

"Hence, the significance of a robust testing team cannot be overstated. From my observation, it plays a crucial role in advancing the capabilities of manufacturers."

"The standard is elevated, and the technology is incredibly sophisticated."

'Hard to fathom the stress'

Aleix Espargaro has concluded his extensive MotoGP journey, leaving Aprilia behind, to dedicate his efforts to Honda's testing program.

"Pol mentioned that Aleix had been searching for something of that nature."

"It's truly challenging to comprehend the daily stress these individuals face to excel."

"They strive for improvement not only during race weekends but also in their daily lives, constantly asking themselves, 'how can I improve?' to achieve excellence every day."

Aleix found himself at a juncture, overwhelmed with thoughts about his future aspirations.

"He desires to spend time with his loved ones. Additionally, he enjoys biking and aims to achieve something while he still can."

"He desires to pursue varied interests in life, a sentiment that's reasonable given his extensive time spent in the paddock."

"Setting the objective to bring Honda back to a winning position or to the forefront is an incredible aim, an astonishing pursuit, and a fantastic journey."

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EXCLUSIVE: The Resistance to Valentino Rossi's Move to Yamaha Explained

Crash.net sits down with Davide Brivio for an exclusive interview commemorating two decades since Valentino Rossi clinched his inaugural MotoGP championship with Yamaha.

In 2024, MotoGP marked its 75th year since the inaugural grand prix season in 1949, a period highlighted by numerous pivotal events. Among these was the significant achievement 20 years earlier in 2004, when Valentino Rossi secured his fourth title in the top class.

At that stage, Rossi had become the leading figure in motorcycle racing. Clinching the last championship of the 500cc era in 2001 riding for Honda in merely his sophomore year, Rossi embarked on the dawn of the four-stroke MotoGP era, dominating on the factory Honda RC211V.

In 2002, Rossi claimed victory in 11 grand prix events and secured second place in all other races, except for one in which he didn't score. This performance led him to his second top-tier championship, and he continued his winning streak by securing a third title in 2003, achieving nine wins with comparable dominance.

While the global community celebrated Rossi's brilliance, this view wasn't shared at Honda's headquarters in Japan. Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) attributed Rossi's victories entirely to the capabilities of the RC211V. Such an attitude is often at odds with the significant pride that is typical among professional motorcycle racers.

Throughout 2003, Rossi's team initiated confidential negotiations with Yamaha, making substantial efforts to maintain secrecy. Davide Brivio, the then team manager, disclosed years later that he and Lin Jarvis had to conceal themselves under a table during a meeting, fearing someone was about to come into the tent where they were situated.

After much negotiation, Rossi secured a move to Yamaha for the 2004 season. However, Honda enforced the full term of Rossi's existing contract with them, preventing him from conducting any M1 test rides until the early part of 2004.

Yamaha and Rossi's team needed to iron out details regarding the financial terms of their agreement and decide which team members would accompany the Italian racer. Additionally, a mindset within the Japanese brand, similar to Honda's approach, threatened to derail this groundbreaking partnership.

"In our conversation with Valentino," Brivio recounted to Crash.net while reflecting on Rossi's 2004 championship, "Yamaha had a varied perspective internally, as some opposed Valentino's inclusion, arguing, 'he's a multi-world champion: should he join Yamaha and we fail to secure a victory, the blame would fall on Yamaha.

"Should we emerge victorious, it will be credited to Valentino, leaving our brand with no tangible benefit." This represented one perspective. The prevailing belief within the organization emphasized the significance of the motorcycle itself. There was a sentiment among some at Yamaha which posited, 'Valentino isn't essential for our success; we're capable of engineering a motorcycle so superior and powerful that any rider could secure a win with it.'"

The issue with this perspective was Yamaha's inability, up until that point, to construct a motorcycle robust enough to clinch the championship in the four-stroke period. Indeed, as of the conclusion of 2003, Yamaha had not secured a championship victory since their 1992 500cc victory with Wayne Rainey. Following that, Suzuki emerged victorious on two occasions – in 1993 and 2000 – whereas Honda dominated the championship scene, with Mick Doohan, Alex Criville, and Rossi taking home the majority of the titles.

During the years 2002 and 2003, Rossi secured back-to-back MotoGP championships, while Yamaha managed to clinch victory in only two grand prix races. Yamaha's performance was so lackluster that when Rossi came on board, the team was coming off a winless 2003 season. Their best finish was a third-place podium at the French GP, thanks to Alex Barros. Carlos Checa was Yamaha's highest-ranking rider in the championship standings, trailing Rossi by a whopping 234 points.

The prospect of Rossi contending for the championship in 2004 appeared unlikely. However, Jeremy Burgess, his crew chief, leveraging the expertise that contributed to the success of the RC211V, pinpointed the enhancements required for the M1. Masao Furusawa, Yamaha's head of technology, developed a novel 'big bang' inline-four engine. Meanwhile, Burgess made adjustments to the bike's dimensions and fine-tuned the electronics to enhance braking efficiency and optimize the M1's performance in corners.

At the start of the 2004 season in South Africa, Yamaha, alongside Rossi, arrived with a significantly upgraded M1. They successfully secured the pole position and triumphed in the race, with Rossi emerging victorious over his main competitor, Max Biaggi, who was riding a Honda operated by Pons, in a captivating contest. Indeed, Rossi led the pack, outperforming a fleet of RC211Vs led by Biaggi, with Sete Gibernau, Barros, and Nicky Hayden trailing behind.

During the victory lap, Rossi paused to spend a moment with his new motorcycle, contemplating the significant achievement he had just accomplished. Afterwards, he focused on his next tasks. He secured eight additional victories in 2004 and clinched the championship one race before the season ended in Australia. This made him the first competitor since Eddie Lawson in 1989 to win consecutive championships on motorcycles from two distinct manufacturers, with Lawson having switched from Yamaha to Honda to achieve this feat.

In 2005, Rossi and his Yamaha team outperformed their competition significantly. Securing victories in 11 races and missing the podium in only one, they left Honda's Marco Melandri trailing by 147 points. This performance solidified the M1 as the premier motorcycle in MotoGP. However, Brivio emphasized that Yamaha's success also highlighted the indispensable role of a skilled rider alongside a capable bike.

Brivio reflects on the prevailing attitude during the early 2000s, emphasizing that the focus was primarily on the motorcycle, often overlooking the significance of the rider. By recruiting Valentino Rossi to Yamaha, they demonstrated the critical role both the bike and the rider play in the sport. Brivio expresses pride in this achievement, believing it restored some recognition to the athletes. Despite his affiliation with a manufacturing company, he feels they were instrumental in reevaluating the balance between the value of the motorcycle and the rider's contribution during that period.

"This brings back a fond memory. We shared many moments of joy and laughter, akin to imagining a scenario where Pecco Bagnaia leaves Ducati due to dissatisfaction, only to join a less successful team and clinch the championship the following year. That's how remarkable the situation was back then. It was a significant and delightful experience. The fun we had was immense, and the lessons learned were invaluable. I must acknowledge that Valentino revolutionized the mindset and culture within Yamaha, particularly in terms of racing strategy."

Certainly, the Yamaha competitor closest to Rossi in the 2005 rankings was his team-mate from the same factory, Colin Edwards, who secured fourth place but trailed by 188 points and had only achieved three podium finishes. The year prior in 2004, the Yamaha rider following Rossi closely was Carlos Checa, lagging by 187 points and having attained only a single podium placement.

Indeed, between 2004 and 2007, Valentino Rossi was the sole Yamaha racer to achieve victories on the M1. It was not until 2008, with the debut of Jorge Lorenzo, that Yamaha witnessed a shift in dynamics, having two competitors able to secure wins on its bikes.

Brivio believes that without Rossi joining in 2004, Yamaha would have continued to prioritize the motorcycle's development, hoping that this strategy would eventually attract a leading rider to the team.

"Brivio suggests that had Valentino not joined the team in 2004, Yamaha might have eventually developed a competitive bike, but it would likely have taken more time. Without Valentino, the journey might have involved building a better bike first to gain the trust of leading riders, potentially taking a couple of years before they could attract a top rider to the team and achieve a victory. This could have delayed the arrival of someone like Jorge Lorenzo or another similar talent, possibly pushing back success by two to four years."

Certainly, if Rossi had not joined the team, Burgess wouldn't have been present to identify the shortcomings that limited the M1's performance. The year 2003 was consistently challenging for Yamaha, sparking speculation that the company might exit MotoGP. Looking back, it's difficult to imagine Yamaha's situation getting better with someone other than Rossi in charge.

The collaboration between Rossi and Yamaha resulted in additional championship victories in 2008 and 2009. However, the emergence of Lorenzo as a dominant force led to his securing the championship title three times from 2010 to 2015. The escalating tension between Rossi and Lorenzo culminated in Rossi's departure from Yamaha at the conclusion of 2010, followed by a challenging period with Ducati during 2011 and 2012.

Rossi and Burgess's success at Yamaha was not mirrored at Ducati, primarily due to the rigidity of its racing team. However, the tide began to turn with Gigi Dall'Igna stepping in as general manager in 2014, setting Ducati on a trajectory towards becoming the contemporary leaders of MotoGP.

In 2013, Rossi made his way back to Yamaha and nearly secured his fifth championship with the company in 2015. He continued to compete for Yamaha until he concluded his MotoGP career at the end of the 2021 season.

Though his victories became scarce towards the end of his MotoGP career, Rossi's legendary status remains unshakeable. This is largely attributed to his groundbreaking switch to Yamaha two decades ago…

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