Announced at the pre-event press conference today at the Valencian GP, Valentino Rossi dropped the bombshell that he would not be having Jeremy Burgess as his crew chief for the 2014 MotoGP season. Rossi reportedly told Yamaha Racing about his decision last week, with Burgess himself learning of the news just before the press conference.
The announcement is a huge move for the nine-time World Champion, as Burgess and his team of mechanics have been an integral part to Rossi’s racing success. However, one has to wonder if Rossi’s current troubles braking on the Yamaha YZR-M1 , and his horrible two years chasing setups at Ducati Corse didn’t play a factor in his ultimate decision.
“Next year, Jerry will not be my chief mechanic. It was a very difficult decision for me because I have a great history with him, he is not just my chief mechanic but part of a family, my father of racing, but I decide for next year I need to change something for try to find new motivation and have a new boost for improve my level and speed,” said Rossi during the press conference.
No word yet on who will replace Burgess as Rossi’ crew chief. More on this as we get it from Valencia.
Photo: © 2013 Scott Jones / Scott Jones Photography – All Rights Reserved
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