Yamaha to retain Rossi through 2010

Valentino Rossi will remain with Yamaha in MotoGP for at least another two years, the Japanese bike manufacturer announced on Friday night. The seven-time world champion joined Yamaha in 2004 and has helped them to two world titles since then. He is also currently leading this year's points standings. Yamaha made the announcement of his contract extension at their annual Laguna Seca party at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. They also confirmed that Jorge Lorenzo will remain with them for 2009. Speaking about his deal, Rossi said: "After so many years spent in racing, fortunately with so many victories, I needed a special motivation to take the decision to sign for two more years. "The best place to find this motivation is Yamaha, since I have a great relationship with Yamaha's directors, which comes from a mutual trust and loyalty.... [read full story]