Rossi returns to Yamaha

Valentino Rossi has endured two unsuccessful years at Ducati (GETTY IMAGES)

Valentino Rossi is to return next season to the MotoGP team that helped him win four of his seven world titles.

After his two unsuccessful years at Ducati, the Italian manufacturer confirmed that Rossi would be leaving at the end of the season to rejoin Yamaha.

The 33-year-old has signed a two-year deal and will partner the 2010 champion and title leader, Jorge Lorenzo.

Yamaha team principal Lin Jarvis said: "This announcement is again excellent news for Yamaha. In June we were able to re-sign Jorge for the 2013-14 campaign, and now we are able to confirm Valentino."