Rossi and Vinales Rev the Hearts of Fans at YGP8

What a way to start the year by Yamaha Motor Philippines; the arrival of “The Doctor” Valentino Rossi and “Top Gun” Maverick Vinales was an event that went above and beyond anyone’s expectations. The two icons for Yamaha Racing were introduced for the first time as new teammates before they embark on their maiden MotoGP season together. For the young Maverick, this was his first time in the country and could not believe the overwhelming support of the Filipinos for him before he formally starts his career with Yamaha. It was a display that he appreciated immensely and hoped he could properly reciprocate with his performance in the MotoGP. He shared to those who aspired to reach the level he was on that they do not need the best facilities or the best circumstances to achieve greatness; all it takes is passion and determination to succeed, that the desire to win can take you and your motorcycle anywhere. He also stated that the opportunity to race alongside Valentino will make him an even better rider and their good relationship will be the key in winning together. His opinion on why he moved to Yamaha was how much better he could become with the a racing team filled with championship experience guiding him, the class of machinery he will be using to reach his maximum potential, and revving alongside one of the best to ever ride in the MotoGP. The returning Valentino seemingly doesn’t get used to the outpouring support he gets in the Philippines. After competing for more than 15 years he is still grateful and overjoyed by the love he gets in this part of the world. Beyond his fame and championships, it was the witty charm of the all time great that makes him popular as he drew laughter from the crowd with his quips. He looked forward to one day training a Filipino in his camp and cited that it takes patience to develop talent. It’s important for programs like the Yamaha Grand Prix to ensure growth and passion of aspiring riders. When the 2017 MotoGP season starts his YZR-M1 will have a sticker of the Filipino flag as he represents the country all over the world; this news was naturally received with deafening applause and cheers. He ended his remarks with an advice for his new teammate “Go Slow” a joke that made everyone laugh. After the press conference it was time for some action on the racetrack. This was the first time the public will witness the duo in action; they rode a specially designed Sniper 150 MXi that showcased MotoGP graphics and the riders’ signature monickers. Thousands were around the track and their appearance caused pandemonium because of the uncontainable excitement. When they finished their laps they greeted the Filipino crowd one last time as they stood alongside Yamaha Motor Philippines President - Toru Osugi to declare the Yamaha Grand Prix 8 officially open.

Read All

Featured Articles

Recommended Articles For You

Read All

Featured Cars

  • Upcoming

Car Articles From Zigwheels

  • News
  • Article Feature
  • Advisory Stories
  • Road Test
  • Set your road trips on these dates this Apr.
    Set your road trips on these dates this Apr.
    Ruben Manahan IV . Today
  • Zigwheels PH's March 2025 wrap-up
    Zigwheels PH's March 2025 wrap-up
    Cesar Miguel . Today
  • Porsche Macan Turbo, Taycan Turbo GT star in short film alongside David Guetta
    Porsche Macan Turbo, Taycan Turbo GT star in short film alongside David Guetta
    Paulo Papa . Today
  • Li Auto enters PH market
    Li Auto enters PH market
    Ruben Manahan IV . Today
  • JAC PH previews upcoming T9 pickup truck
    JAC PH previews upcoming T9 pickup truck
    Cesar Miguel . Today
  • Here’s a close look inside the BYD Shark 6 DMO
    Here’s a close look inside the BYD Shark 6 DMO
    Cesar Miguel . Mar 25, 2025
  • Ford ‘Raptor’ trucks, SUV showcased in Dubai dunes
    Ford ‘Raptor’ trucks, SUV showcased in Dubai dunes
    Paulo Papa . Mar 21, 2025
  • Here are the BYD Shark 6 DMO's 3 available colors in PH
    Here are the BYD Shark 6 DMO's 3 available colors in PH
    Paulo Papa . Mar 18, 2025
  • Women celebrities and their cars
    Women celebrities and their cars
    Paulo Papa . Mar 17, 2025
  • 5 reasons that make the Nissan Z NISMO an exciting coupe
    5 reasons that make the Nissan Z NISMO an exciting coupe
    Cesar Miguel . Mar 17, 2025
  • Do you really need 4x4 for overlanding?
    Do you really need 4x4 for overlanding?
    Cesar Miguel . Mar 26, 2025
  • Number coding 2025: what you need to know
    Number coding 2025: what you need to know
    Paulo Papa . Mar 09, 2025
  • EVs still require lubrication, JAMA execs say
    EVs still require lubrication, JAMA execs say
    Paulo Papa . Mar 09, 2025
  • Ensure your vehicle is Summer road trip-ready by following these tips
    Ensure your vehicle is Summer road trip-ready by following these tips
    Paulo Papa . Mar 06, 2025
  • Loving your car 101: how to protect your car’s interior
    Loving your car 101: how to protect your car’s interior
    Paulo Papa . Feb 17, 2025
  • Changan CS15: no-fuss daily driver
    Changan CS15: no-fuss daily driver
    Cesar Miguel . Mar 27, 2025
  • First drive: Mercedes-Benz EQE 350+ AMG Line
    First drive: Mercedes-Benz EQE 350+ AMG Line
    Paulo Papa . Mar 21, 2025
  • BYD Shark 6 DMO: first impressions
    BYD Shark 6 DMO: first impressions
    Cesar Miguel . Mar 19, 2025
  • Changan Uni-T: bold and classy
    Changan Uni-T: bold and classy
    Ruben Manahan IV . Mar 14, 2025
  • JAC JS2 Pro: ideal 'first car' option
    JAC JS2 Pro: ideal 'first car' option
    Paulo Papa . Mar 10, 2025