MotoGP | WithU Yamaha RNF 2022: Dovizioso, “It was fundamental to have raced the last 5 races of 2021”

MotoGP 2022 Presentation WithU Yamaha RNF 2022 – Andrea Dovizioso spoke at the presentation of the new WithU Yamaha RNF team, born from the "ashes" of Team Petronas, held at the Teatro Filarmonico in Verona.

“Dovi”, in his 15th year in MotoGP, is looking for redemption after the divorce with Ducati in 2020 and the last five races of 2021 were held aboard the 1 Yamaha M2019 of Team Petronas.

Here's what the man from Forlì said as he can't wait to get on the M1 Factory in the next Sepang test scheduled for early February.

Statements Andrea Dovizioso Presentation WithU Yamaha RNF 2022 MotoGP

“It's a fascinating place for a presentation, unusual for motorbikes, but special. The livery of the motorbike is very beautiful. Last year I took over during the season and it was difficult, but it helped me to be at the first test in Jerez, so I was able to give feedback to the team and the engineers to get to the first test in Malaysia as best as possible. It was a big change, but it was essential to get to know the bike and the Team and be ready and fast.

I'm really ready for this season! I'm training a lot in the gym and with my motocross bike. I removed the plaque on my collarbone in early December to feel better for this year. Everything is going well. I'm happy to start this full season after five test races last year. As mentioned, it was very important to start early with the Yamaha, a different bike to the one I have used in the last eight seasons. I am convinced that this will help me a lot to better face the tests and races in 2022. I know more about the bike, the engineers and the team in general. The new colors add to the incredible overall picture and I can't wait to take part in the tests in Malaysia. For the last two years we haven't been able to race there, so I'm really happy to go to Sepang.”

Statements Andrea Dovizioso Experience Presentation WithU Yamaha RNF 2022 MotoGP

“I have a lot of experience, I've been in the MotoGP for many years. Experience can be helpful but it can also influence, you have to be good at managing both aspects well.”

Statements Andrea Dovizioso MotoGP 2022 objective

“At the base there must be speed and competitiveness, feeling the bike and exploiting it. This can mean various types of results. I can't know at this moment how competitive my bike is compared to the others. We will understand something more in the tests, even if they will be special tests because in Malaysia they will only be two days and on a track where no laps have been taken since. The basis is still to enjoy riding and you only enjoy it when you squeeze the bike, exploit it and the results arrive as a result."

Statements Andrea Dovizioso Darryn Binder jump from Moto3 to MotoGP Presentation WithU Yamaha RNF 2022 MotoGP

“The one made by Binder is a huge leap. The first test in Jerez was a shock, but I like talking to the riders and I will try to help him. Today's MotoGP is special, everyone is very close and you don't have to look at the position but make your own step, improve and progress."