Byrne signs for factory Aprilia GP squad

Shane Byrne, reigning British Superbike champion, has signed to ride a factory Aprilia in MotoGPs as the replacement for the departing Colin Edwards. Byrne had been likely to sign for the Foggy Petronas team in World Superbikes, but he signed for the Italian factory this afternoon (November 2), and will visit the factory next week.

Byrne said, ” I am pleased to accept this deal. To ride for a factory like Aprilia is a real honour. I am under no illusions about how challenging it will be, but I will give it 110% for my fans in Britain. ”

Shakey is due to test the Aprilia within the month.

” We are tremendously pleased to have Shane Byrne in our team. He has had a tremendous year and we believe he has a bright future, ” said Ivano Beggio, the President of Aprilia.

See news on Neil Hodgson’s switch to GPs, Rossi leaving Honda, and Edwards joining Sete Gibernau in the Movistar squad by following the appropriate links on the right. Comment on this story on the GP discussion board.