Franco Morbidelli credits mentor Valentino Rossi for keeping him motivated during Yamaha MotoGP struggles
Unpredictability Looms Over Yamaha’s Morbidelli as He Struggles to Keep His Ride for 2024
Franco Morbidelli, the runner-up in the 2020 championship on Petronas SRT Yamaha, is facing a tough time in MotoGP. Since moving to the factory Yamaha squad midway through 2021, he has struggled to secure a top spot with his best performance being fourth position which came at Argentina’s sprint and grand prix.
The Italian rider is now under pressure to save his ride for the next season. While options to replace him are limited, Pramac’s Jorge Martin has been rumored as a potential replacement. His contract with Ducati includes an exit clause if any factory team offers him a deal.
Yamaha has set an end-of-the-first-half-of-season target date for finalizing its line-up for 2024. Meanwhile, Rossi’s VR46 Academy is working hard this year to help Morbidelli improve his form.
In an exclusive interview , Franco revealed that Vale and all of the guys at VR46 Academy have given him one thing that helps him grow – battle! “You really grow up by the adversities that you find,” said Franco. “The more adversities that you find, you are able to overcome them and become better.”
Rossi sets high standards even outside racing; he remains competitive while doing other activities such as go-karting or riding bikes at ranches making it easier for Franco always to stay motivated during training sessions.
“That kept me alive last year because in difficult moments when I was training back at home and everything we did I was seeing my potential there,” said Franco while adding: “It’s challenging but slow progress.”
Despite the difficulties, Franco is determined to improve his skills not only in areas he knows he can excel but also in those that require more work. “It’s a way to enhance my performance and will never stop,” said Franco.
As Morbidelli aims to keep his ride for 2024, it remains unclear if Yamaha will retain him or opt for other alternatives. However, one thing is sure – unpredictability looms over Morbidelli’s future as he continues struggling with his form.