Andrea Dovizioso's Return Sparks Speculation: Could the MotoGP Legend Join Yamaha in 2025
Eliška Ryšánková
News.GP journalist who’s all about the thrilling worlds of MotoGP and Formula 1.
With Cal Crutchlow sidelined due to injury, MotoGP legend Andrea Dovizioso made a surprise return to the Yamaha M1 at the San Marino Grand Prix. His presence at Misano's official test has fueled rumors of a potential comeback to the grid in 2025, as Yamaha continues its efforts to close the gap at the top. Dovizioso’s strong ties with Yamaha's new Technical Director Max Bartolini only add to the speculation.
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With Cal Crutchlow’s ongoing injury concerns, Yamaha turned to Andrea Dovizioso ahead of the San Marino Grand Prix, placing the former MotoGP rider back on the Yamaha M1. Dovizioso was also present at Misano’s official test, raising speculation about his potential return to the grid in 2025.
Reflecting on his return to the bike, Dovizioso said, "It felt great to be back on a MotoGP bike. After two years, feeling that stiffness and power again was amazing. The lap times weren’t bad, but things have changed—a lot of development and faster bikes."
Yamaha has undergone significant changes in the last year, most notably bringing on Max Bartolini as Technical Director, a long-time collaborator of Dovizioso during his Ducati days. Dovizioso noted their strong relationship and Yamaha’s need to recover as quickly as possible, acknowledging the stiff competition.
Rumors suggest Dovizioso might join Yamaha’s test efforts alongside Augusto Fernandez, but Dovizioso remained noncommittal, saying, "Now is not the time to talk about that."
Yamaha’s Maio Meregalli confirmed that Dovizioso is likely to test again in Jerez in November if Crutchlow remains unfit, praising his analytical approach and contribution to the project.
