LAGUNA SECA, California (AFP) — Seven-time world champion Valentino Rossi has extended his contract with Yamaha for two years, the Japanese motorcycling team announced on Saturday.
The 29-year-old, who joined Yamaha in 2004 and since then has won two world championships, 32 races and taken 20 pole positions, will continue to race with Yamaha for the 2009 and 2010 MotoGP world championships.
"I had other opportunities but due to Yamaha's efforts to give me the best bike in the best environment, I have decided to stay with Yamaha for two more years," said Rossi, who will continue to race alongside Spanish youngster Jorge Lorenzo in 2009.
"This contract means that Yamaha is the manufacturer I will have spent most of my career with. This means more than a thousand words."
The Italian is currently leading the 2008 championship with three wins and five podiums in the first ten races this year.
He added: "After so many years spent in racing, fortunately with so many victories, I needed a special motivation to take the decision to sign for two more years.
"The best place to find this motivation is Yamaha, since I have a great relationship with Yamaha's directors, which comes from a mutual trust and loyalty.
"In our team there is a special atmosphere and with this new deal I can continue to work with my crew, where I am part of the project and part of the development of my M1."
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