Yamaha has been Jorge Lorenzo’s home since his MotoGP debut in 2008, and the YZR-M1 has been the bike on which he won three MotoGP world titles. For that reason, this weekend’s race at Valencia has a special taste for the 29-year-old Spanish rider. After the race on Sunday afternoon, Lorenzo said goodbye to the men with whom he has shared so much in the past nine years.

Starting Monday, Lorenzo will be a factory Ducati rider. “One year ago, I would have never thought that this would be my last race with Yamaha,” said Lorenzo. But that time has come and now Lorenzo has closed the door on an important chapter in his life. Before he did, I caught up with him one last time in the Yamaha tent.

What are your best memories with Yamaha?

The first races in the premier class, my first win, and my first world title.

And the best race?

I remember Assen, 2013, very well because I came back on track exactly 30 hours after surgery [to repair a broken collarbone suffered in a crash during practice] and I finished fifth.

No one had done it before. Now, I wouldn’t do it, either. I’m not so crazy as I was three years ago. It is also true that when you are in the position to fight for the championship, you would do all.

Which was your favorite bike of all the Yamahas?

The M1 of the years 2009 and 2010 were the best bikes of the grid.

How did you approach this last race with your team?

I was very motivated to do a good race at Valencia and fight for the win or the podium. I wanted to celebrate this special moment with a victory. It’s a track where I won three times in MotoGP.

My target was to finish third in the championship, which would mean that I finished in the top three positions in the last eight years. This shows my strength and consistency.

Do you have mixed feelings this weekend?

Yes. On one side, I’m sad because it’s difficult to say goodbye to a group of people who have spent nine years together. We have gone through so many adventures—some very good times but also difficult moments.

The ambiance has always been great and I’m leaving a competitive bike. On the other side, I’m excited to start this new adventure.”

The two-day test at Valencia will be your only opportunity to ride the Ducati this year, as Yamaha didn’t give the permission for additional tests. Did you expect different treatment after so many years with Yamaha?

I was more worried to get the same treatment and the same material as my teammate. I cannot complain because we have always been treated equally.

I would have loved to test more, but I can understand Yamaha’s point of view. I have a contract signed with Yamaha until the end of the year, and I respect the deal.