Two-time MotoGP Esports champion Lorenzo Daretti joined Monster Energy Yamaha.

Yamaha becomes the first team to announce their rider for upcoming series in a special presentation in Jerez.

“I‘m really proud to start this new season as an official eSport rider for Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP. Being a part of this team, which immediately welcomed me with open arms, is an indescribable emotion,” said the Italian rider.

“After two world titles, this year it will be harder to repeat myself, because my rivals are getting more and more professional and determined. But the fact that I am the first officially signed rider in the history of the sport gives me an extra boost and I will prepare myself to the maximum to get ready for the challenge.

“I would like to thank Yamaha for the trust they have placed in me since day one, and I‘m looking forward to starting the 2019 championship qualifying and beginning this new adventure on the track.”

Daretti joined the Esports competition after completing online challenges on the Xbox One, which earned him an entry into the semi-final before the final 12 riders would face each other in the grand final taking place in Valencia, the venue of the final MotoGP championship race.