Source: Supplied.

Nine-time world champion Valentino Rossi has re-signed with Yamaha for the 2017 and 2018 MotoGP World Championship seasons.

The announcement comes after three very strong years by the most-respected MotoGP rider of all time, since his return to Yamaha in 2013.

Rossi has had a very special bond with his beloved YZR-M1 starting from his first race with Yamaha at Welkom Circuit, South Africa, in 2004, which ended in an iconic win.

The combination of ‘the Doctor’ and the YZR-M1 has gone from strength to strength since and together they secured four titles and 53 wins over 10 seasons together.

With 15 brilliant podiums and four strong GP victories in the last year, Yamaha is confident in its partnership with Rossi and looks forward to being a serious title contender for 2016 and the following seasons.

“I believe the confirmation of the extension with Valentino will be music to the ears of Yamaha fans and MotoGP fans around the world,” said Lin Jarvis, managing director of Yamaha Motor Racing.

“I cannot think of a better way to start a new season than for both parties to make this strong commitment. From Vale’s side a statement of commitment to the sport he loves and towards the Yamaha brand.

“From Yamaha’s side a confirmation of the recognition to the rider that has brought us four MotoGP world titles and who remains so passionate about his sport and is still highly competitive, as proven by his two second positions in the last two seasons.

“When Vale returned home in 2013 it was a decision for life. This new agreement confirms that Vale will indeed finish his motorcycle racing career with Yamaha.

“Before that however all Yamaha fans can enjoy three full seasons of exciting performances from the Doctor as he challenges to win his 10th world title for the Movistar Yamaha MotoGP team.”

Rossi wasn’t expected to make his decision so soon in the season, however it was announced on the eve of the 2016 MotoGP World Championship season.

“I am very happy to announce that Yamaha and I have extended our contract and will continue working together in MotoGP for the next two years,” Rossi said. “I am very satisfied with this decision, because it has always been my plan to compete in motorsports for as long as I can be competitive and find it enjoyable at the same time.

“Ever since I returned to Yamaha in 2013 I have felt like I am home again and this showed in the results. I get great enjoyment out of working with my crew and the rest of the Movistar Yamaha MotoGP team.

“Their support for me has known no limit and I want to thank them sincerely for that. I’m feeling greatly motivated to keep riding my YZR-M1 for the best results possible, this year and the following two seasons.

“I also want to say a big ‘thank you’ to my fans, who are always behind me every step of the way, making the races extra special. I will keep pushing at each and every grand prix so we can all keep enjoying MotoGP for more years to come!”