They are two of the biggest names in motorcycle racing , and tensions were high the last time they were on the same team , but Jorge Lorenzo says rival Valentino Rossi 's return to Yamaha is `` good news . '' Valentino Rossi will return to Yamaha on two - year deal from start of 2013 season . Two - time world champion has retired since leaving to join Ducati in 2011 . MotoGP series champion Jorge Lorenzo welcomes the return of his former teammate . Lorenzo says Rossi will be motivated by the prospect of renewing their rivalry .
Valentino Rossi will return to Yamaha on two - year deal from start of 2013 season . Two - time world champion has retired since leaving to join Ducati in 2011 . MotoGP series champion Jorge Lorenzo welcomes the return of his former teammate . Lorenzo says Rossi will be motivated by the prospect of renewing their rivalry .