MotoGP: Yamaha boss hails Jorge Lorenzo

Senior Yamaha boss Lin Jarvis has tipped rookie Jorge Lorenzo to help the Japanese factory remain a major force in MotoGP after the Spaniard’s stunning start in 2008.

Lorenzo has made an incredible impact to his Yamaha career by claiming three pole positions and three podiums in three races, including his maiden victory in last weekend’s Estoril clash.

Lorenzo is already being seen as the natural successor to Yamaha star Valentino Rossi and Jarvis, Managing Director of Yamaha Motor Racing, told MCN: “Jorge is only 20 and he has impressed everybody, firstly in the 250 class and now in MotoGP.

“He has adapted very quickly and he is already leading the championship. I think he is clearly going to be one of the big talents.

“He is one of the big talents of today and he will remain one of the big talents for the future.”

Jarvis though is hoping Lorenzo’s stunning start doesn’t start to add too much pressure on the double world 250 champion to continue emulating performances like his brilliant victory in Portugal last Sunday.

“I just hope that his stunning performances in the start won’t become a burden for him and that the expectation won’t be too great because lets remember it is his rookie year.

“He has had some issues with arm pump which I think prevented him from showing better performances in the race and now I think he will only get stronger in he future.”

The future is certainly looking bright for Yamaha, with Jorge Lorenzo already signed for next year, and new deals being signed with both James Toseland and his Tech 3 team in Estoril.

Confidence is also growing that Valentino Rossi will renew for 2009 despite wild speculation about a possible bid from Kawasaki.

“In the sense that Jorge will be in the factory team next season, and with James and Tech 3 already sorted, if we can renew with Valentino and either continue with Colin Edwards or another young rider I think we have a good future,” added Jarvis.