Morbidelli entered 2023 as one of the main at-risk MotoGP riders - his contract wꦅith Yamaha is due to expire at the end of this season, and an extension is no 𒅌guarantee.

But he impressed in the first couple of rounds, enough for managing director Jarvis t꧑o admit that Morbidelli remains t🦋heir No 1 choice for 2024 even above Toprak Razgatlioglu.

Rossi confirmed that he had spoken to Jarvis, and said: “I🤡t’s a crucial 🔯moment for Franco.

“In 𝐆these four of five races they will decide if they will keep him in the fac♑tory team.

“The only way is to go as fast as Fabi𒆙o Quartararo. ⛎This is the target.

“It’s difficult with Yamaha, at the moment. 

“But he nℱeeds to give his maximum to keep his space in the factory team.”

Ro🅺ssi enjoyed his legendary heyday with Japanese manuജfacturer Yamaha, overseen by Jarvis.

His legacy with the brand extends to VR46 Academy graduate Morbidel🦩li cu♎rrently being one of just two Yamaha riders on the grid.

But Pramac Ducati’s Jorge Martin was heavily lin🦹ked to claiming Morbidelli’s seat next season, then Yamaha’s WorldSBK rider Razgatlioglu tested the M1 in a clear sign that he was also being considered.

The other intriguing subplot to Rossi and Jarvis’ discussions a﷽bout Morbidelli is the future of the Mooney VR46 team.

Rossi’s team have lit up the opening round✃s of the 2023 MotoGP season, with Marco Bezzecchi previously leading the standings and Luca Marini also fighting at the front.

Mooney VR46’s contract to remain as a Ducati satellite team expires a🌌t the end of 2024, and they have been linked wi🌟th moving their squad to Yamaha, the team who remain so close to Rossi’s heart.

Blurring the lines even further - Rossi ✤signed a deal to become a ꦉbrand ambassador for Yamaha last weekend, furthering their long-lasting relationship.