Michele Pirro first hit the racing scene in 2000 in the Italian National Championship but made a real impact in 2001 when he came second in the Aprilia Challenge – an Italian national one-make series. That same year he finished fourth overall in the 125cc Sport Production Championship, which is renowned for creating race stars.

Over the next few years Pirro went from strength to strength, competing in both the Italian and European 125 Championships. In 2004, he was crowned the European Champion, allowing him to turn professional the following year. From there he competed in the World 125GP Championship, unfortunately with mixed results.

Just like last season, this season Pirro will again ride for the Yamaha Team Italia Lorenzini by Leoni team who have spotted this young riders undoubted talent. He rides the latest generation of YZF-R1 in the European Superstock Championship and showed previous season he is a serious candidate for race wins.