Tech 3 extend Yamaha deal through 2010

Herve Poncharal's team have run Yamaha machinery since 1999, and have made a strong start to 2008 with new riders Colin Edwards and James Toseland.

"We are delighted that we are going to be continuing our relationship with the Tech 3 team and with Herve Poncharal," said Yamaha team boss Lin Jarvis.

"Our partnership is long-standing and we are very pleased with the significant improvements this year by the Tech 3 Yamaha Team both on and off the track."

Tech 3 have taken a step forward this year after switching from Dunlop to Michelin tyres. This weekend in Portugal they will run Yamaha's latest pneumatic valve engine for the first time.

"Yamaha believes in long-term relations with all of its partners and despite some difficulties in the past two years we have stuck together, made new plans and both Tech 3 and Yamaha are now seeing the fruits of our respective labours," Jarvis added.

"Tech 3 play an important part in our MotoGP programme. They have a great package this year and their early season results with Colin and James have been very encouraging. It has always been our strong intention to have four competitive bikes on the grid and we are now in that position.

"It is therefore only logical to make the commitment to stay together and we believe that this early decision will give Tech 3 the confidence to invest in the future."

If Yamaha remain committed to a four-bike programme, Tech 3's extended deal could be a blow to the Aspar team's MotoGP hopes.

Jorge Martinez 'Aspar', who currently runs bikes in 125cc and 250cc, said earlier this week that he would talk to Yamaha and Suzuki about a potential supply of MotoGP machinery for 2009.