Rossi and Yamaha Solidify Bond with New Multi-Year Partnership for 2026

Tavullia, Italy — Valentino Rossi and Yamaha have officially doubled down on their iconic relationship.

On January 22, 2026, Yamaha Motor Co. and VR46 Racing Apparel announced a new multi-year partnership that officially cements Rossi’s role as the brand's Global Brand Ambassador. While Rossi retired from MotoGP competition in 2021, this new deal ensures "The Doctor" remains the face of the Iwata factory for years to come.

The Return of the FIAT Era

The centerpiece of the 2026 renewal is the launch of two distinct apparel lines produced by Rossi’s VR46 company:

• Yamaha Ambassador Collection: The official uniform Rossi will wear for all institutional engagements and Yamaha global events.
• Yamaha Heritage Collection: A nostalgia-heavy line celebrating Rossi’s most dominant years. The 2026 focus highlights the 2008 and 2009 seasons, featuring the return of the historic FIAT branding—a move sure to resonate with fans of the "Golden Era" of MotoGP.
  Business vs. Racing
  For fans tracking the paddock politics, it is important to distinguish this brand deal from the racing side.
• Rossi as Ambassador: He is officially representing Yamaha Motor Co. globally.
• The Race Team: Rossi's own Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team has confirmed it will continue to field Ducati machinery for the 2026 season with riders Fabio Di Giannantonio and Franco Morbidelli.
  Despite his team racing for the competition, Rossi stated the agreement with Yamaha "feels natural," allowing him to maintain his deep ties with the manufacturer that powered him to four of his seven premier-class titles.

"We worked together for many years in the past, and it feels natural to continue this journey," Rossi noted during the announcement.

Official Source: vr46.com/pages/vr46-yamaha