Yamaha MotoGP Stars Visit Yamaha Motor Europe Yamaha Factory Racing riders Jorge Lorenzo and Ben Spies and Yamaha Tech3 rider Andrea Dovizioso made a pit stop to visit some of Yamaha’s extended family today. The riders arrived a day early for the upcoming Assen TT to spend a morning hanging out with over 100 employees at Yamaha Motor Europe’s headquarters near Amsterdam. The riders were introduced on stage to the gathered employees by Andrew Smith, Vice President Sales & Marketing, Yamaha Motor Europe. After a short Q&A session the riders and employees joined together to play games in replica set ups of both teams pit boxes. The employees were able to win special prizes including signed replica helmets of Lorenzo and Spies. Dovizioso’s team mate Cal Crutchlow was unable to attend as he concentrates on recovery from his Silverstone ankle injury. The riders now move to Assen to prepare for the historic TT race this Saturday. Jorge Lorenzo “It was great fun today, I think it’s the third or fourth time I’ve visited and it’s always good. This is the biggest and most important centre for Yamaha in Europe. It’s especially nice to see all the faces again; they are really enthusiastic and motivated!” Ben Spies “It was good to be here at YME again for the second time. I always have good thoughts coming from back in 2009 when we won the World Superbike title. It’s great to see all the staff and I hope it gives us extra luck for this race weekend!”