Suzuki Protege Maverick Vinales is confirmed to join the Works Yamaha squad for 2017 on a two year deal.
Suzuki has announced that Maverick Vinales shall part ways with them at the end of the season and pledge their continuous support to the 20 year old who's currently in fifth place in the championship standings.
The 20 year old from Barcelona, fresh from his maiden podium in the premier class and Suzuki's first in 6 years has been tipped to replace Jorge Lorenzo at Yamaha ever since the Mallorcan announced his defection to Ducati. Few speculated that he will stay back at Suzuki and win a championship with them but "The Maverick" couldn't deny an opportunity to work and share the pitbox with his idol and multiple time World champion Valentino Rossi.
Maverick has been the hot property of the GP paddock after his impressive stints through the ranks, winning the "Rookie of the year" in all the classes (125/Moto3, Moto2 and MotoGP). His performance onboard the Suzuki GSX-RR in the 2015 season touted him as the "Next big thing" in the paddock, with Valentino Rossi announcing his approval of having Vinales alongside him publicly.
Rumor mills were churning out information about Dani Pedrosa being linked to the second Yamaha seat, but few sources stated this news a while ago and it was announced today ahead of the Sixth round of the MotoGP world championship at Mugello.
By: Suraj