Aleix Espargaro backs Fabio Quartararo contract: “Not only for the money…”

MotoGP rider Aleix Espargaro has supported Fabio Quartararo’s decision to extend his contract with Yamaha, stressing that choosing a rider is not just about the financial aspect. Despite underperforming performances, Quartararo has decided to stay with the team and has signed a new long-term contract that will reportedly make him the highest-paid MotoGP rider.

Espargaro, the current April rider, is currently making his own decisions about his MotoGP career. He compared his situation to that of Quartararo and emphasized that while the driver market is changing for some, the circumstances for him are completely different.

Regarding Quartararo’s contract extension, Espargaro said: “Many people are criticizing his contract extension and I don’t understand this criticism. It’s a game of poker and everyone knows what cards they’re being dealt.”

He stressed that Quartararo made the decision not only for financial reasons, but also took into account other factors, such as his familiarity with the Yamaha team and his success with the world title.

Espargaro also stressed that Quartararo’s renewal is not as strange as some might think, especially given that he cannot move to an official Ducati team for the time being.

Quartararo’s decision to stay with Yamaha could be seen as a long-term bet. Although he may face immediate challenges with the bike’s performance, Quartararo is confident that the changes and improvements planned by the Yamaha team will benefit him in the medium term.

Quartararo’s new contract will certainly add significantly to his bank balance, but it also means he will have to wait patiently for the results of Yamaha’s planned improvements. The Japanese team is using the new concession rules to accelerate development of its bikes and plans to add a satellite team in 2025 to expand its capabilities.

Ultimately, Quartararo’s decision to extend his contract with Yamaha shows that his commitment goes beyond money and reflects his trust in the team and his determination to achieve long-term success in MotoGP.