Yamaha Germany senior management: Marcel Driessen leaves, Antoni Orpinell takes over

Yamaha Motor Europe N.V. has announced a significant change in leadership at its German subsidiary: Antoni Orpinell will take up the post of Country Manager at Yamaha Motor Europe N.V.’s German subsidiary with effect from 1 January 2027.

Antoni Orpinell thus succeeds Michael van Zomeren, who had taken on the role on an interim basis in addition to his role as Director of Marketing & Motorsport at Yamaha Motor Europe, following the mutually agreed termination of Marcel Driessen’s contract on 30 June 2026. Over the coming months, van Zomeren will work alongside Orpinell to ensure a smooth handover.

International experience and strong ties to Yamaha

Antoni Orpinell has been part of Yamaha for more than 16 years. His career began in 2010 at Yamaha Motor in Spain, where his responsibilities included heading up the marketing department. In 2015, he moved to the European headquarters, where he currently serves as Division Manager for Marketing. In this role, he has played a key part in shaping Yamaha’s European marketing activities and has provided important impetus for brand impact, visibility and digitalisation.

New momentum for a key European market

Germany is one of Yamaha Motor’s most important European markets. With his international experience, marketing expertise and passion for the Yamaha brand, Orpinell will work alongside the German team and the dealer network to inject new momentum. The aim is to build on the existing strengths of the German organisation, further expand the Yamaha brand’s presence and consistently capitalise on opportunities in the market.

Michael van Zomeren will hand over the reins on 1 January 2027. Yamaha Motor Europe would like to express its sincere thanks to Michael van Zomeren for his commitment during this transition phase and wishes Antoni Orpinell every success in this new career move in Germany.