Yamaha extends Tech 3 partnership in MotoGP

The deal means Tech 3, which has finished as the top satellite team and ahead of the works Ducati outfit for the last two seasons, will run prototype Yamaha machines over the next two seasons.

Yamaha Motor Racing's managing director Lin Jarvis said the deal would help develop future Yamaha riders.

Tech 3 will run Bradley Smith and Yamaha protege Pol Espargaro in 2014.

"I'm really very happy to continue our relationship with Herve Poncharal and the entire Tech 3 team," Jarvis said.

"We have enjoyed a very successful partnership for more than a decade and have shared many memorable moments over the years.

"Tech 3 continues to perform as the top ranking satellite team in MotoGP and their riders are frequently scoring excellent results.

"We are very keen to continue to work together closely for the future to develop young talent which is a very important part of our total Yamaha factory racing programme."

Poncharal, Tech 3's team principal, added: "We have been working with Yamaha since 1999 and have enjoyed a great collaboration and a great relationship. It is an honour and a privilege.

"Next year is a new adventure having two young riders; Bradley Smith will be entering his second MotoGP season and will be joined by Pol Espargaro so we are very excited.

"I believe this is going to be a great set up not only together with Yamaha, but with our sponsors too and that is something we are pretty proud of."