Mackenzie joins Yamaha.

Former British Superbike champion Niall Mackenzie will return to Yamaha as ambassador for the Virgin Mobile Cup and youth development coordinator for Team Virgin Mobile Racing.

"I am really looking forward to working with Yamaha again, my motivation has never been so high, Rob has done a great job with the development of many young riders and I want to share his passion and hopefully be part of the next wave!" said Mackenzie, who has worked for Rizla Suzuki in recent seasons. "I would like to think I can bring some of my experiences along and share with our young team, the chance to be a part of hopefully our next champions is my inspiration."

"Niall and I spent many years racing together around the grand prix circuits and then later spearheading the dominant Cadbury Boost Yamaha team of which he won three British Superbike crowns in succession, this is a real coup for myself, Virgin Mobile and Yamaha, I have wanted to make this happen for a few years and now the timing is perfect," declared Virgin Yamaha team manager Rob McElnea.

"I know how Niall thinks and he will prove to be a real asset for the Virgin Mobile Cup and a huge help to all our young riders, he will be great for motivation and has already got plans for getting close to these young guy's and nurturing them through the season."