Little more than a month has passed since the dramatic events under the Losail lights called time on the final races of 2016, but in the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship that can feel like a lifetime. With thoughts already firmly set on the 2017 racing season, Yamaha Motor Europe N.V. is delighted to officially introduce Michael van der Mark, who will compete alongside current rider Alex Lowes as its Pata Yamaha Official WorldSBK challengers.

Having completed two private tests with his new team in mid-November, amassing 300 laps in both wet and dry conditions, van der Mark spoke exclusively to Yamaha Racing. The Dutch rider gave an insight into the real 'Magic Michael', while discussing his initial impressions of the WorldSBK-spec YZF-R1, his move to the Yamaha family and the British-based team, and his goals for the season ahead.

The full interview with Michael van der Mark is featured as part of December's digital Insider magazine and can be read here