Casey Stoner has recently revealed the “main reason” why he has not taken up a consulting role within the MotoGP paddock since retiring from the sport. Upon hearing his qualms, Yamaha should offer the Australian a blank chequebook.
The Australian MotoGP legend recently gave an eye-opening interview during an appearance at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.
While talking about various topics, such as the future of the Australian Grand Prix, Stoner was also asked about his time inside the Ducati garages assisting the struggling Francesco Bagnaia last year.
Which MotoGP team would benefit the most from employing Casey Stoner as a consultant?
Speaking to GPOne, the 40-year-old mentioned that he lent his wisdom “for no other reason than to help” Bagnaia, but then went on to fume about the fact that he was not financially compensated for the work at all.
Stoner also noted that he does “miss” the premier class paddock, but asserted that he will not go out of his way to help a team out for “no reason”, and definitely won’t give away his two-time title-winning knowledge again “for free”.
Yamaha must offer Casey Stoner whatever he wants to bring him on board
As such, Stoner’s next move is now obvious: Yamaha.
The Japanese brand are struggling massively with their V4 concept this year, and have been relegated as the grid’s resident backmarkers until they come up with a solution, or write off the rest of the year in anticipation of MotoGP’s new era of technical regulations next year.
For one, Stoner has stark experience of making a poor engine work wonders. The Australian was plagued with an engine that was being “eaten alive” during his heyday at Ducati, but Stoner still managed to bring a maiden world title back to Borgo Panigale for the factory’s Tifosi.
Another factor that makes Yamaha the prime site of a return to the MotoGP paddock is the fact that the Iwata-based constructor are renowned for being the strongest factory on the grid when it comes to financial prowess.
Yamaha could, and should, offer the Australian whatever he wants in order to bring him on board because at this moment, they certainly don’t have anything to lose. Stoner’s knowledge would be of the finest pedigree, and so would Yamaha’s payout.
On top of that, Stoner’s qualms with not being properly appreciated at Ducati last year would not have a place at all at Yamaha.
- READ MORE: Casey Stoner once stated why Valentino Rossi doesn’t ‘come close’ to 137-race rider as MotoGP’s GOAT
The Japanese engineers are renowned for their traditional ways of working, and the two-time world champion would be held in high regard wherever he was placed at the factory.
It remains to be seen whether Stoner truly does seek a way back into the sport he has already given so much to, but all of his concerns over returning to the premier class paddock would certainly be eased at the most successful brand in MotoGP history.
Receive racing news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
