Nine-time world champion Valentino Rossi has declared he’s determined as ever entering his 24th season of grand prix motorcycle racing.

Rossi, who turns 40 years of age this month, embarks on his 14th year with the Yamaha brand, which launched its new colours yesterday during a team presentation in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Following an enduring 2018 campaign, the Italian ace is eagerly awaiting this week’s test at Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia, which will offer his first opportunity to sample the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP team’s off-season developments.

“I‘ve taken a bit of time to relax and train these last couple of months, but, like the fans, I‘ve mostly been looking forward to starting the new season,” Rossi explained. “The upcoming test in Sepang is very important, because it‘s the first opportunity for the team to get together to try everything Yamaha has been working on over the winter.

“Our performance improved towards the end of last season, but we want and need to make some more big steps, so we need to get to work. I‘m sincerely looking forward to the new season and to riding again, I want to get back aboard my M1.

“I feel as good and determined as ever, nothing changed in that area, and I believe that, with some hard work, we can improve upon last year and be back on top.”

Testing this week will commence on 6 February before concluding on 8 February. The opening round of the 2019 MotoGP World Championship is scheduled for 10 March at Losail International Circuit in Qatar.