Vinales supports young Qatari riders

Monster Yamaha MotoGP star Maverick Vinales will be collaborating with the Qatar Motorsports Academy to help and support the development of Qatari riders.

The five-time MotoGP race winner began his new role during a recent visit to Doha.

"I really like working with young riders," Viñales said. "I sponsor a junior team in the Spanish Championship."

“I have enjoyed my first meeting with the kids of the Academy. It’s great to see their enthusiasm and interest. And I have to say that I am surprised by the organisational structure and facilities available to the kids attending the Academy.

"My being linked with the Qatar Motorsports Academy will give it visibility, which will arise curiosity about the project and about what is going on in that part of the planet, theoretically so far away from the ‘normal’ racing world.

"The commitment of the Losail Circuit Sports Club with MotoGP and two-wheel sport in general is impressive."

Khalid Al Remaihi, Losail Circuit Sports Club Vice President and GM, added: “We are delighted to welcome Maverick to our project. We are sure that his commitment to the Academy will boost and motivate our young riders and promote its international exposure."

Vinales will be back in MotoGP action at this weekend's Spanish MotoGP at Jerez.