Yamaha has announced Augusto Fernandez as an official MotoGP Test Rider for the 2025 season.
After months of speculation, Yamaha has announced that Augusto Fernandez has signed as a MotoGP Test Rider.
The Spaniard spent two years as a Tech3 rider with KTM, but has taken a step back away from full-time racing. Fernandez will partner Cal Crutchlow in Yamaha's MotoGP Testing plans, but the Spaniard will fulfill the wildcard appearances in 2025.
"I'm very happy and super excited to join Yamaha as a test rider for 2025," Fernandez stated. "It's a huge honour to be part of the Yamaha family, and I want to thank everyone who made it happen.
"In this amazing new project, I will do my best to help Yamaha to be back where they deserve to be.
"Can't wait to start our journey together!"
Lin Jarvis stated: "I am delighted to confirm that Augusto Fernández is officially joining Yamaha for the 2025 season as a Yamaha Factory MotoGP Test Rider. Bike development is a priority for Yamaha as we challenge to return to winning ways at the earliest opportunity.
"We have signed Augusto to be our second Yamaha Test Rider alongside Cal Crutchlow. Cal was unfortunately unable to fulfil all his testing duties in 2024 and it became obvious that we needed to recruit a second rider to assist us with completing all essential activities for 2025.
"We believe Augusto will be a good fit for both the Yamaha Factory Racing MotoGP Test Team and the YZR-M1 bike. Augusto is young and is fast, and he can test alongside Cal and learn the special methodology required from a full-time test rider.
"Our current performance ranking permits us to take full advantage of the maximum limit for the testing programme. In addition to the tests, we have the idea to participate at up to six wild-card rides, and Augusto will also be the go-to replacement rider in case any one of the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team riders or Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP riders are unable to race at any time in 2025. The many riding opportunities should allow Augusto to maintain his racing speed while he proceeds with the intensive testing obligations."
