Yamaha recently announced it will fully participate in the 2011 Japanese Grand Prix at the Motegi Circuit. Earlier this year
Jorge Lorenzo became one of the biggest opponents along with Casey Stoner of participating in the Japanese round due to fear of radiation exposure from the Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant complex, which sustained heavy damage during the '11 Japan earthquake and tsunami. The news of Lorenzo’s participation is a dramatic switch from previous remarks in which the defending champ stated:
“I don't want to go to Japan. I don't feel safe to go there. I do not want to wait 20 years wondering if something will happen to me or my children. You will not convince me.”
Lorenzo’s teammate,
Ben Spies, will also participate in the 15th round of the championship, with both wearing special anniversary leathers in celebration of Yamaha’s 50th year in GP racing.
Here’s the official statement from Yamaha Racing:
Yamaha Factory Racing confirms full attendance at the Motegi GP running Yamaha's WGP50th Anniversary special livery.
Yamaha Factory Racing herewith confirms the attendance of its riders Jorge Lorenzo and Ben Spies to compete for round 15 of the 2011 MotoGP World Championship at Motegi in Japan on 2nd October. The Yamaha Factory Racing team will race in Yamaha's WGP50th Anniversary red and white livery for the 4th time this year at the home GP of team owner Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.
