Statements from Valentino Rossi, Francesco Bagnaia and others over Yamaha’s Private Testing at Misano: A Gathering of Legends and Rising Stars

Yamaha’s Private Testing at Misano: A Gathering of Legends and Rising Stars

On Monday and Tuesday, Yamaha’s private MotoGP testing at the Misano World Circuit wasn’t just about fine-tuning their race machines. The track buzzed with an eclectic mix of riders, including some of the most iconic figures in motorcycle racing, making it a spectacle of both nostalgia and future potential.

Valentino Rossi, the legendary Italian rider and former MotoGP champion, made a special appearance. Rossi took to the track aboard his Yamaha R1, proudly displaying his iconic #46 on the fairings. His return to the Misano circuit, where he had so many memorable moments in his illustrious career, was a nod to his enduring connection with the sport.

Rossi wasn’t alone in his nostalgic ride. He was joined by fellow VR46 Riders Academy members, including Francesco Bagnaia, Franco Morbidelli, and Marco

Bezzecchi. These riders were on Ducati Panigale V4 S machines, showcasing a different flavor of racing talent. Michele Pirro, known for his test rider duties with Ducati, also participated, contributing to the diverse mix of talent on the track.

The KTM camp was represented by Dani Pedrosa and Pedro Acosta. Acosta even took the opportunity to ride a Moto2 bike, highlighting the cross-category engagement of the testing session. Gresini Racing’s Moto2 riders, Albert Arenas and Manuel González, were also seen honing their skills on the track.

This private testing session was more than just a routine check-up; it served as crucial preparation for the busy racing calendar ahead. Misano is set to host the San Marino GP, an official test day, and the Emilia-Romagna GP in September, making these days of training particularly valuable.

Valentino Rossi reflected positively on the experience, stating, “It was a nice training session. We had an easy ride and I feel the bike will be good. At least we all had the same bike and racing experience.” Rossi’s enthusiasm for the day’s activities underscored the collaborative spirit among the riders.

Francesco Bagnaia also shared his thoughts, saying, “I have always been a big fan of Yamaha, and they didn’t disappoint with their bikes. It was good riding alongside others.” Bagnaia’s comments highlight the mutual respect and camaraderie among the riders, regardless of their different team affiliations.

In essence, the private testing days at Misano were a convergence of past, present, and future racing talent, providing invaluable experience and setting the stage for a thrilling September in the MotoGP calendar.