MotoGP: Cal Crutchlow signs new test rider deal with Yamaha

Cal Crutchlow has signed a new two-year deal with Yamaha to continue as their official MotoGP test rider.

The Brit first took on the role after retiring at the end of 2020, but was thrust back into the world of racing last season due to Franco Morbidelli’s knee injury and Maverick Vinales’ shock departure from Yamaha during the year.

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Crutchlow raced alongside Valentino Rossi in the Petronas Yamaha satellite squad at both Austrian rounds, before joining Fabio Quartararo in the factory team at Silverstone and Aragon. He didn’t score any points, however Crutchlow was able to continue his testing programme at each event.

“I’m happy to be spending the next two years with the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP team as their Official Test Rider again,” Crutchlow said. “I think it makes sense for all parties involved to continue our good working relationship from last year. I will again put 100% into it.”

Crutchlow is currently in Sepang for the three-day Shakedown Test. This year’s five MotoGP rookies are all in Malaysia:

• Raul Fernandez & Remy Gardner (Tech3 KTM)
• Fabio di Giannantonio (Gresini Ducati)
• Marco Bezzecchi (VR46 Ducati)
• Darryn Binder (RNF Yamaha)

All six manufacturers have also sent their official test riders to the test in order to get their 2022 development programmes back underway. Crutchlow is present for Yamaha, as is Dani Pedrosa and Michele Pirro at KTM and Ducati respectively.

Sylvain Guintoli is testing for Suzuki and Lorenzo Savadori continues with Aprilia. Stefan Bradl will be present for HRC; however, it’s being reported that he will miss day one as his bike is still in Dubai following a test at Jerez last week.