GERNO DI LESMO, Italy — Yamaha Motor Co. and Dorna Sports have signed a contract that will continue the manufacturer’s participation in the MotoGP world championship for an additional five years through 2026.

The news was officially confirmed by Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team Principal & Yamaha Motor Racing Managing Director Lin Jarvis during today‘s post-’Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team Launch‘ media debrief.

Yamaha started its MotoGP international racing program in 1961, making this season the Japanese manufacturer‘s 60th anniversary. Throughout their contest in MotoGP, Yamaha has secured 511 Grand Prix wins, 38 rider world titles, 37 Manufacturer titles and five Triple Crowns.

“First and foremost, I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to Carmelo Ezpeleta and Dorna, as well as all of the Yamaha personnel who made our successful run at the highest level of motorcycle racing possible,” said Yamaha executive officer Toyoshi Nishida. “At Yamaha we take great pride in taking part in Grand Prix motorcycle racing. We are all very pleased that we can confirm the contract renewal for a further five years at the start of an important season for our company.

“Yamaha started competing in World Grand Prix racing in 1961. Sixty years on, Yamaha‘s passion for motorcycle racing and eagerness to take on a challenge remains unchanged. MotoGP makes up a large part of Yamaha‘s DNA. The premier class‘ cutting-edge technology will continue to make their way to Yamaha street bikes, bringing customers‘ motorcycle and motorsport fantasies to life on and off-track, giving them the feeling of Kando.

“At the same time, I think the coming five years of collaborating with Dorna and the other MotoGP manufacturers will be very important for the future. We want to keep the excitement of MotoGP racing while at the same time making it more sustainable and appealing to a wider public.”