Argomenti trattati
Andrea Locatelli and Yamaha Motor Europe have officially announced their agreement, allowing the Italian rider to continue racing for Yamaha’s official team in the FIM Superbike World Championship for the 2026 and 2027 seasons. This extension will make Locatelli one of the longest-serving riders in Yamaha’s WorldSBK history, rivaling the legendary Noriyuki Haga.
Locatelli’s impressive start to the season
The 2025 season has been nothing short of remarkable for Locatelli. Riding the Yamaha R1, he has achieved three podium finishes out of the first five races, including a stunning victory at the TT Circuit Assen. Currently, he holds the fifth position in the championship standings, setting the stage for an exciting upcoming Round 6 at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli.
From Supersport to Superbike
Locatelli’s journey with Yamaha began in 2020 when he dominated the Supersport World Championship with the Evan Bros Racing team, clinching the world title in his rookie season. His transition to WorldSBK in 2021 marked a new chapter in his career, where he has consistently showcased his talent, amassing 20 podium finishes, including his recent victory at Assen.
A strong bond with Yamaha
Expressing his enthusiasm about the contract renewal, Locatelli stated, “I am really happy to sign with Yamaha for another two years. I have been with Yamaha for many years now, and I believe in the team, I believe in the people at Yamaha and want to continue to work, because I feel that we can achieve a lot more together.” His commitment to push for progress mirrors the team’s belief in his potential.
Yamaha’s perspective on Locatelli
Niccolò Canepa, the Road Racing Sporting Manager at Yamaha Motor Europe, emphasized Locatelli’s integral role within the Yamaha Racing family. He noted, “Having been with us for six years now, Andrea has become a true part of the Yamaha Racing family. His performances have been impressive since his rookie season, and it feels like he’s always on an upward trajectory.” This sentiment highlights the team’s commitment to nurturing talent and striving for success in the competitive landscape of WorldSBK.
The road ahead
Looking forward, both Locatelli and Yamaha aim to build on their success. With a solid foundation laid in previous seasons, the focus is on continuous improvement and pushing the limits of what their R1 can achieve. The racing world is ever-evolving, and with Locatelli’s dedication matched by Yamaha’s innovation, fans can expect thrilling performances in the upcoming seasons.