Petronas Yamaha Sepang Racing Team will debut Jake Dixon in the MotoGP category at the British Grand Prix next weekend (27-29 August), his home race, to replace the recovering Franco Morbidelli.
Dixon will jump aboard the Yamaha YZR-M1, which Cal Crutchlow last raced at the last two Grands Prix, while Morbidelli continues his recovery from knee surgery in June. Crutchlow moves to Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP at Silverstone.
PETRONAS Sprinta Racing will soon announce the Silverstone replacement for Dixon alongside Xavi Vierge in Moto2.
“This is a unique opportunity for Jake to show what he can do and explore his potential on a Yamaha YZR-M1 – called Razali – We do not set any specific earnings targets; It’s an opportunity to gain experience at his home GP as Franco continues his recovery. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity and we wanted one of our rider family to have this chance on board the MotoGP bike. As it’s his home Grand Prix, it’s a track Jake knows well and it will be great for British fans to have another rider in the premier class. We also thank Cal for his contribution to the team during the last two GPs and wish him all the best for the next weekend. “
“It was a lifelong goal to make it into the MotoGP class,” replied Dixon. Home is special. It’s going to be very difficult, but I’m looking forward to jumping on the big bike, even if it’s different and very exciting! I I couldn’t sleep because I was just thinking about it. It’s a dream come true. I will do everything I can to do my best for the team and I want to say a big thank you to you for this opportunity. Also to Yamaha for believing in me. I have no goals, I just want to enjoy it and get all the experience I can. I just want to wish Franco a speedy recovery and that we can see him back on track soon. “