Yamaha paid tribute to one of the greatest legends in its racing history during the 2026 CIV Night. At the Italian Superbike Championship round held on July 25-26 at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, the Yamaha DMR Team’s Yamaha R1 Superbikes raced in a special livery inspired by the legendary “Yamaha Yellow” colour scheme that accompanied Kenny Roberts to his first 500cc World title.
A tribute to one of Yamaha’s greatest icons
The exclusive livery appeared on the Yamaha R1 SBKs of reigning Italian Superbike champion and current CIV leader Alessandro Delbianco, as well as teammate Manuel Margarito, bringing back one of the most recognisable colour schemes in Yamaha’s racing heritage.
Far more than a cosmetic change, the tribute celebrated Yamaha’s identity, built through decades of competition, innovation and success.
The colours that defined an era
In 1978, Kenny Roberts became the first American rider to win the 500cc World aboard the Yamaha YZR500, opening a new chapter in racing. The Yamaha Yellow livery from that historic season later became one of the manufacturer’s signature racing colours, returning on several special editions, including the 2006 Yamaha R1 Limited Edition.
Andrea Colombi, Country Manager of Yamaha Motor Europe in Italy, said: “There are colours that instantly evoke emotions, challenges and great victories for every motorcycle enthusiast. With this livery we wanted to pay tribute to Kenny Roberts and one of the most iconic chapters in Yamaha’s history. It is not only a celebration of our past, but also a reminder that the racing spirit which made Yamaha great continues to live on in every race and every new challenge.”
Honouring the past while racing into the future
By bringing back one of its most iconic liveries, Yamaha strengthened the link between its racing heritage and its current competition programme. The Yamaha DMR Racing Team’s appearance at the 2026 CIV Racing Night became a celebration of the brand’s history, highlighting Kenny Roberts’ lasting influence and the racing DNA that continues to shape Yamaha today.