The Monster Yamaha team has unveiled its 2019 MotoGP livery at its launch event in the Indonesian capital Jakarta, with the new colour scheme a stark departure from that used in previous years.
Last season proved difficult for Yamaha, as ongoing struggles with its engine and electronics meant it entered its longest losing streak – 25 races – in its premier class history.
Maverick Vinales ended this drought with the marque's sole victory at Phillip Island and was fourth in the standings, with team-mate Valentino Rossi enduring his first winless campaign in Yamaha colours on his way to third overall.
Yamaha comes into 2019 with new title sponsorship from energy drinks giant Monster, who previously acted as main sponsor for the satellite Tech3 team – which ended its 20-year association with the Japanese marque at the end of last year to begin a new tie-up with KTM – with the firm's presence leading to a predominantly black design on the works M1s.
“This year the Yamaha Factory Racing MotoGP team’s package is different from previous years, so it seemed only fitting to hold a special launch event to mark this fresh start,” said team boss Lin Jarvis.
“The team travelled to Indonesia this time. The country’s market is very important for the Yamaha Motor Group, and the fans’ and local media’s great passion for MotoGP further adds to its appeal.
“Its central location in Asia and close vicinity to the first official test, held in Malaysia the day after tomorrow, made it a perfect location for the team launch.
"Yamaha and Monster Energy have been collaborating for many years. We are proud to have them as an official sponsor of the Yamaha Factory MotoGP Team since 2013, and now we will be working even closer together as we step up the global alliance between the two brands and they take on the title sponsor role.
“Monster Energy is known for giving its audience the full experience of whatever makes them passionate, which is also what we strive after at Yamaha.
“During the upcoming season we aim to leave a strong impression throughout the entire MotoGP season, and we very much look forward to sharing this next chapter with race fans, giving them a thoroughly enjoyable season.
“We’ve revealed our new team logo and livery today. The new design, especially the black-toblue gradient on the bike, visualises the partnership between Monster Energy and Yamaha.”
The first pre-season test of the year kicks off on Wednesday at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia for three days, before testing concludes in two weeks' time in Qatar.
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