Valentino Rossi has revealed that he is willing to join Petronas if Yamaha remains uncompetitive at the start of the 2020 season.
After last season, rumours began to circulate in the paddock about a rift between Rossi and Yamaha. The Italian rider admitted he was suffering everywhere from the start.
“I don’t see all that much difference to go to Petronas. I would prefer to stay where I am, but we are three riders for two places, so you have to think of a third place.” Rossi told Gazzetta dello Sport
“And for me, even if it’s Petronas, it doesn’t seem like such a bad team. But maybe Vinales will go, or Quartararo changes bike, who knows.
“I’d like to have a bit more time. Unfortunately, today everything in the MotoGP is decided at the beginning of the year. I’ll need some time to understand, like mid-season. I’ll talk to Lin Jarvis and Yamaha to find out what they think.” Rossi added.
Rossi admitted the first half of the 2019 season was his worst ever on the Yamaha. Fingers are pointed at the M1 and the team.
Unlike Rossi, Maverick Vinales won with the M1 at Assen and finished second in Germany. While rookie Fabio Quartararo has scored two consecutive podiums at Barcelona and Assen.
However, the Doctor has confessed his love for the sport and his M1 multiple times and he wouldn’t like to give it up unless he has to.
“Yamaha says it doesn’t feel like a hostage, it believes in my competitiveness. This is important. It is a great honour and also a great luxury for a rider to quit when he decides. They usually leave you stranded.” Rossi said.
“My dad and mom want me to continue, but so do others. But come on, we have to be realistic. I’d like to, but we have to be more competitive than last year, otherwise, it’s best if I don’t. And that would still be alright.
“I would like an M1 that goes 10 km/h faster in a straight line, like the Honda and the Ducati. But I know it will be difficult.” he added.
