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| Yamaha: Each day reduces chance of Lorenzo staying |
Lin Jarvis says with each day Jorge Lorenzo doesn't confirm his plans for 2017 the chances of him re-signing for Yamaha reduce.
The Yamaha racing managing director believes the longer Lorenzo takes to make a decision on staying with the Japanese manufacturer or moving to Ducati only adds weight to the theory he will leave for the Italian brand at the end of the season.
On the eve of the season opener in Qatar, Yamaha confirmed both Valentino Rossi and Lorenzo received a new two-year contract offer at the same time. Rossi signed immediately, but the reigning MotoGP is yet to make up his mind.
It is understood Ducati, who have seen several attempts to attract Lorenzo from Yamaha in the past fail, have tabled an offer which the Spanish rider is giving seriously contemplation alongside the Yamaha deal.
Speaking to Speedweek.com, Jarvis has confirmed negotiations haven't been delayed by Lorenzo asking for more money and feels with each day passing since the offer was tabled the chances of him re-signing fall.
“I would say every day that passes since we offered Jorge the new contract reduces our prospects,” Jarvis told Speedweek. “With each additional day of the bidding which he does not decide to accept our offer it reduces our chances with Jorge to stay. And there have already been many days gone.”
Jarvis confirmed in Qatar Lorenzo has a deadline to accept the Yamaha offer, but did not outline when it is - although a decision could come before the next round in Jerez.
Maverick Vinales is favourite to replace Lorenzo, but has an 'option' in his contract to continue at Suzuki. It is unclear at present whether Vinales controls this option or Suzuki.