Yamaha is bringing help for its Sepang shakedown test, taking with them their test rider Andrea Dovizioso to gather valuable data. The test, set for January 31 to February 2, will also feature factory riders Fabio Quartararo and Alex Rins, along with the new test recruit Augusto Fernandez.

Dovizioso’s return is a big boost for Yamaha, which is eager to regain its competitive edge. The Italian rider, known for his battles with Marc Marquez during his Ducati years, previously raced for Yamaha’s Petronas SRT team before he retired. Since then, he has played a key role in Yamaha's development efforts, particularly its new V4 engine.

The much-anticipated V4 powerplant has been kept under secrecy. Initially scheduled for testing in December, it wasn’t ready in time. Now, with Dovizioso in the mix at Sepang, speculation is high that Yamaha will finally unleash the new engine on track. While the new engine is unlikely to debut in races until the latter half of the 2025 season, this test marks a crucial step forward.

Yamaha remains the only MotoGP manufacturer still using an in-line four-cylinder engine, while rivals have long transitioned to V4 engines. With the Sepang test being conducted behind closed doors, Yamaha has a rare chance to assess its latest developments without prying eyes.

All eyes, however, are now on whether Dovizioso’s expertise can help Yamaha find its way back to winning form.