Bradley Smith close to Yamaha MotoGP deal for 2013

Bradley Smith is close to agreeing a deal to join the Monster Yamaha Tech 3 MotoGP squad in 2013, MCN understands.

The 20-year-old is understood to be negotiating a three-year deal with the Tech 3 Racing squad.

The highly rated Oxfordshire rider would remain with Tech 3 in the Moto2 world championship next season before moving to MotoGP for 2013 and 2014.

Smith, who finished sixth in today’s 21-lap Motorland Aragon Moto2 race, turned down the chance to move to MotoGP with the Monster Yamaha Tech 3 squad to remain in Moto2.

He has scored three podiums in a brilliant rookie campaign in the 600cc four-stroke class and he is confident he can mount a serious title attack on the French-built Mistral 610 machine next season.

An official announcement on the deal is expected soon.