Jorge Lorenzo keen on extending Yamaha deal

Jorge Lorenzo has quashed rumours that he is already seriously considering quitting Yamaha to join Ducati for 2015 during a special unveiling of this year’s factory YZR-M1 livery in Indonesia.

Reports in Spain earlier this week suggested Lorenzo was close to reaching a pre-contract agreement for 2015 to make a shock move to a factory Desmosedici.

But the double MotoGP world champion, who is one of several big names out of contract at the end of 2014, has crushed the Ducati speculation by insisting he is keen to pledge his future to Yamaha.

Lorenzo has spent his entire MotoGP career with Yamaha since moving from the 250cc category in 2008.

He has become the Japanese factory’s number one rider and only missed out on defending his title last season by four-points.

Speaking at the unveiling of Yamaha’s new livery in Jakarta today, Lorenzo said: “When you are fast and winning races all the big factories want you, this is normal. I have to clarify that there is no truth in the rumours that there is a contract with another manufacturer and I would like to start negotiating as soon as possible for my future with Yamaha. My dream is to retire after my career as a Yamaha rider. If our bike is even better this year then it will be easier!”

Assessing his prospects for 2014 in what is sure to be another epic fight with compatriot and Repsol Honda rival Marc Marquez, Lorenzo added: “My expectations for this season are very high. This winter I had an operation to take out the metal plates in my shoulder so I’m a bit lighter but I’m also a bit fatter after Christmas! I am training hard to lose some kilos and I will try to start the season well like last year and be straight onto the podium. This will be important to get points and gain confidence to keep going through the season. Our rivals will be tough but I think if we’ve improved in some areas then we have a good chance to win the title again.”