Rossi extends Yam deal

Valentino Rossi has surprised racing by extending his Yamaha contract by a year to the end of 2008, making sure the season is free from speculation about his future plans.

The 2005 season was filled with talk that he might quit bike racing for F1, and few believe that it did anything but harm his 2006 title defence – which he ultimately lost. It will be his fifth year with Yamaha.

The seven-time world champ said: “I’m very happy I renewed the contract with Yamaha until the end of 2008 so now I can just concentrate on racing this season. 

“I think that last year, when we fought back from what seemed an impossible situation to come so close to taking the title, showed what a fantastic team we are and this is why I want to stay with Yamaha. 

“The past three years with Yamaha have been very positive and this is why I am pleased to stay. 

“The atmosphere in our garage is always relaxed and happy and I think that this is something very special and difficult to find. 

“I have great faith in Yamaha and I am very excited about my future and the future of the 800cc bike with them. 

“We are ready to challenge with the new 800cc and now this agreement gives us the chance to launch this challenge for the next two years.”

Meanwhile it is expected that Yamaha will announce a new sponsorship deal imminently, with Fiat the favourites.