Tech 3 thrilled to secure Bradley Smith on long-term

Tech 3 boss Herve Poncharal has spoken of his delight at securing British rider Bradley Smith on a long-term contract, as was revealed by MCN yesterday.

The 20-year-old has signed a three-year deal with Poncharal’s Tech 3 squad, which includes the chance to switch to MotoGP on a 1000cc Yamaha YZR-M1 machine in 2013.

Smith will stay with Tech 3 in Moto2 next year after impressing in his rookie campaign in 2011 on the French-built Mistral 610 machine.

He will then move to MotoGP for 2013 and 2014 and Poncharal said: “It gives me enormous pleasure to confirm that Tech 3 has signed a three-year agreement with Bradley Smith.

“Without doubt, we have managed to secure the services of one of the brightest young talents in the world and I am thrilled that Bradley has put his trust in Tech 3 to help him accomplish his dream of racing in MotoGP.

“We know he had a lot of interest inside the paddock because of the way he has performed this season, so it is a big compliment to Tech 3 that he chose to commit himself to us until the end of 2014 at least. Bradley has made an immediate impact in Moto2 this year and we all know it is a very difficult class.

“The rules mean that rider talent plays a crucial role in determining the results, and Bradley has shown he has the speed, talent and commitment to match the best.

“He has shown the true potential of the Mistral 610 machine with some phenomenal performances this season, and we are in no doubt that in 2012 he can be a genuine title contender before he makes the step to MotoGP.

“One more year in Moto2 will help him gain more valuable experience, so that when he moves to our MotoGP Team in 2013, he will be immediately competitive. I am convinced that with Bradley’s long-term commitment to Tech 3 Racing that we can look forward to a long and successful relationship together.”

Smith will be joined by Belgian rider Xavier Simeon in 2012. Simeon currently rides a third Tech 3 machine for the RTL-Sport squad but he will replace Mike di Meglio.