Yamaha Bids Farewell to Calvin Vlaanderen After Five Seasons

Yamaha Motor Europe thanks Calvin Vlaanderen as their five-year partnership concludes. The South African MXGP rider leaves after a remarkable run featuring Grand Prix victories, podiums, and factory success.

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Yamaha Motor Europe has expressed heartfelt gratitude to South African motocross star Calvin Vlaanderen. This marks the conclusion of an exceptional five-year collaboration that began in 2020. Vlaanderen’s contract with Yamaha has naturally come to an end. This puts an end a chapter defined by grit, growth, and standout performances at the highest level of MXGP competition.

A Journey of Determination and Excellence

Vlaanderen joined Yamaha in 2020, stepping into the MXGP class aboard the YZ450F. From the start, he impressed fans and teams alike with his technical finesse and relentless commitment. His breakthrough moment came in 2022, when he stormed to a memorable Grand Prix victory in the demanding sands of Sardinia. This win underscored his speed and mastery on one of the toughest circuits on the calendar.

That performance cemented Vlaanderen’s status as one of MXGP’s most consistent and hard-working riders. After three strong seasons with a Yamaha-supported team, his results and professionalism earned him a call-up to the Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP Team for the 2024 and 2025 campaigns. This was a well-deserved progression that recognised his championship-calibre potential.

Two Seasons of Factory Glory

Vlaanderen’s time in factory blue was marked by resilience and perseverance. In 2024, he delivered two podium finishes and climbed to fourth in the world standings, only for a late-season injury to interrupt his momentum. True to form, he bounced back in 2025 with renewed determination. He added three more podiums to his career tally and once again proved his capacity to challenge the best in the world.

Beyond the numbers, Vlaanderen’s professionalism, calm under pressure, and approachable character made him a respected figure within the Yamaha paddock and a favourite among fans.

Yamaha’s Tribute

In a statement, Alexandre Kowalski, Yamaha Motor Europe’s Off-Road Racing Manager, praised Vlaanderen’s contribution to the brand’s racing legacy:

“On behalf of everyone at Yamaha Motor Europe, I would like to thank Calvin for his dedication, professionalism, and the many incredible moments we’ve shared throughout the past five years. Aside from his undeniable ability on a motorcycle, he is a great example of a top athlete. Very humble, respectful, and polite. It has been a genuine pleasure working with him. We wish him every success in the next chapter of his career.”

Looking Ahead

As Vlaanderen prepares for his next move, Yamaha’s message is one of deep appreciation and mutual respect. His five-year tenure leaves behind a legacy of consistency, determination, and sportsmanship — values that resonate deeply with the Yamaha racing philosophy.

Whatever comes next for Calvin Vlaanderen, his time in Yamaha blue will be remembered as a period of pure passion and unwavering effort, true to the spirit of motocross itself.