Yamaha announced this Friday morning the immediate termination of the Spaniard’s contract, who, after giving up the second year that he still had to fulfill (2022), was suspended with a view to the last race, last Sunday, at the Red Bull Ring .
15 days ago, in the first test held on the Austrian circuit, Viñales circulated the last four laps erratically, “putting himself and the rest of his trackmates in danger,” according to what was read in the statement sent by the mark of the tuning forks, in which the reasons for the sanction were detailed.
Despite the fact that the rider apologized publicly, the Japanese manufacturer decided to cut to the chase, so that the Catalan will not complete the rest of the races this year on one of his bikes (modified calendar).
Last Monday, Aprilia made official the incorporation of the #12 with a view to 2022, with an option to extend the link in 2023. However, the latest measure adopted by Yamaha and the terms in which it has materialized have opened the possibility for the builder of Noale has Viñales already this 2021.
“After careful consideration by both parties, a mutual decision was made that it would be best to end the partnership sooner. The early separation will free up the rider to follow their chosen future direction,” the Yamaha statement reads, opening the door for Maverick to race whoever he wants immediately.
Several paddock sources close to Aprilia have confirmed to Motorsport.com that Massimo Rivola , CEO of the Italian house’s racing division, wants to see him compete as soon as possible, to start knowing what he can expect from one of the the fastest members of the grid.
Logically, Viñales would replace Lorenzo Savadori , whom Aprilia turned to as an emergency solution once Andrea Iannone ‘s doping suspension was confirmed until mid-2023.
Although the proximity of the British Grand Prix to be held next weekend makes it difficult for Viñales to reappear, it would not be surprising if the boy from Roses (Girona) could make his debut wearing his new colors already in Aragón , where It would arrive after having carried out some test with what will be his new team.
