Rossi extends Yamaha deal for 2006

Six-times world champion Valentino Rossi will ride for Yamaha in MotoGP next season after extending his contract until the end of 2006.

The announcement ends speculation that the 26-year-old Italian, who is well on course for a fifth straight MotoGP world title, might make a switch to Formula One or rallying next year.

Rossi joined the then uncompetitive Yamaha from dominant Honda at the end of the 2003 season and immediately upset his former employers by winning the first grand prix of the new season and going on to claim the 2004 championship.

"I am so happy to be able to announce the continuation of my relationship with Yamaha," Rossi said.

"Last year was magic, to win my first race with Yamaha, and then to win the championship."

His eighth win in 10 races this season at the German Grand Prix last weekend left Rossi 120 points clear of his compatriot Marco Melandri in the title race.

The victory was his 76th in grand prix and brought him level with British great Mike Hailwood in third place in the list of the most successful riders with only Giacomo Agostini and Angel Nieto having won more.

Rossi said the need for a challenge was behind his shock move from Honda to Yamaha in 2003 and his success since has only added to the reputation of the flamboyant rider who is now one of motor sport's, and Italy's, biggest stars.