How Yamaha's new MotoGP era can unchain Vinales

After the electrifying start to his Yamaha MotoGP career in 2017, Maverick Vinales has struggled for consistency. Many anticipate that the arrival of Fabio Quartararo could spell disaster, but the departure of Valentino Rossi could be just the impetus he needs

Published Feb 16, 2021, 11:42 AM

The 2021 MotoGP season is an historic one for Yamaha. It marks the Japanese manufacturer's 60th year in grand prix racing. It also marks the first of its years with Valentino Rossi where the veteran Italian won't appear in its factory line-up, having been moved aside to Petronas SRT (where he will be on a works contract) for to make way for Fabio Quartararo.

If there's ever a moment in recent times representing a true changing of the guard in the premier class, it's this.

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Author Lewis Duncan

Lewis Duncan is Autosport's International Editor and primary motorcycle racing reporter. A motorsport fan from a young age, Lewis became interested in journalism when he won the star letter competition in the February 2012 issue of F1 Racing Magazine. A member of the Autosport Academy from 2017, Lewis became a freelance motorcycle racing correspondent for Autosport in 2019 before becoming a full-time staffer in 2020 as International Editor.

While MotoGP coverage is his priority, Lewis also covers World Superbikes and road racing across the Motorsport Network, and hosts the Tank Slappers Podcast. He has also occasionally commentated on 750 Motor Club meetings. Away from motorsport, Lewis is a keen record collector with a collection unashamedly largely featuring Iron Maiden and Rush and an avid guitar player.