Published March 19, 2019 by Michael Le Pard , Editor‑in‑Chief
As the 2019 road and off-road racing championship get underway, Yamaha Motor Europe has re-structured the Racing Management Organisation to optimize the efforts in racing and deliver a complete support from the bottom to the top of the racing pyramid.
Moving into a new role, Alexandre Kowalski will take on the title and responsibility of Yamaha Motor Europe Off-road Racing Manager, leading all Motocross and Rally operations. Alexandre brings 2 decades of experience as Marketing and Racing Division Manager in Yamaha Motor France, including the previous five years managing Yamaha Motor Europe’s Rally and Enduro programmes.
Current Yamaha Motor Europe MX Racing Manager Erik Eggens will remain in charge of MX racing operations, with a stronger focus on MXGP and MX2 classes. Expanding the team will be new member Thorsten Lentink, joining the Yamaha Motor Europe off-road team as MX Racing Coordinator. Thorsten will have the responsibility to focus on the EMX and Supported Team activities as well as ensuring the smooth running of the off-road bLU cRU programme.
To provide a balanced service and support, Alberto Barozzi will move to a pure road racing function as Road Racing Supervisor, with a focus on coordination of WSSP600 and WSSP300 Supported Teams as well as the Road Racing bLU cRU programme, reporting to Yamaha Motor Europe Road Racing Manager, Andrea Dosoli.
Michael Le Pard (“Mr. Totalmotorcycle”) is the Founder of Total Motorcycle, the world’s largest motorcycle information site, trusted by over 430 million riders since 1999. With over 34 years of experience in motorcycles, gear and rider culture, he has built a global community dedicated to empowering and inspiring motorcyclists.
Total Motorcycle remains his passion project. Combining expert research, hands‑on knowledge and a commitment to helping riders make informed decisions about bikes, gear and safety worldwide.
Paolo Pavesio
Yamaha Motor Europe Division Manager, Marketing and Motorsports Division