Yamaha Motor Europe Bids Farewell to Calvin Vlaanderen After Five Successful Years
Yamaha Motor Europe has officially concluded its partnership with South African motocross rider Calvin Vlaanderen, following the completion of his five-year contract. Vlaanderen joined Yamaha in 2020, making an immediate impact in the MXGP class with the YZ450F. Notably, he secured a remarkable Grand Prix victory in Sardinia in 2022, showcasing his technical skill and competitive spirit.
During his tenure, Vlaanderen demonstrated consistent podium potential that ultimately earned him a seat with the Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP team for the upcoming 2024 and 2025 seasons. His recent performance has been highlighted by a robust fourth-place finish in the 2024 world standings, which was briefly interrupted by a late-season injury. Resilient as ever, he returned in 2025 with three additional podium finishes, further solidifying his reputation as a top competitor.
Alexandre Kowalski, Yamaha Motor Europe’s Off-Road Racing Manager, expressed gratitude for Vlaanderen’s contributions, stating, “Calvin’s dedication and professionalism have resulted in many incredible moments over these years. He exemplifies the qualities of a top athlete—humble, respectful, and hardworking. We wish him every success in his future endeavors.”
The departure marks the end of a significant chapter for both Vlaanderen and Yamaha, as both look toward new opportunities in the evolving motocross landscape.
