Cal Crutchlow extends Yamaha MotoGP testing contract

Cal Crutchlow will remain a Yamaha MotoGP test rider for the next two seasons, the factory has announced.

The Englishman, 36, was a full-time MotoGP racer from 2011-2020 taking podiums for Tech3 Yamaha, Ducati and LCR Honda, including three race victories on the RCV.

"I'm happy to be spending the next two years with the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP team as their Official Test Rider again," Crutchlow said in a tweet from Yamaha. "I think it makes sense for all parties involved to continue our good working relationship from last year. I will again put 100% into it."

After retiring at the end of 2020, Crutchlow took over from Jorge Lorenzo as Yamaha's European test rider.

Initially tipped to make a wild-card appearance last year, injuries for Franco Morbidelli and then departure of Maverick Vinales meant Crutchlow instead rode in four MotoGP races, two each for Petronas SRT and Monster Yamaha, with a best finish of 16th.

Today's announcement made no mention of any wild-cards for Crutchlow this season.