Forward extends Yamaha MotoGP deal

Forward Racing has renewed its deal to run Yamaha-based Open class bikes for the 2015 MotoGP season.

The team took advantage of the new Open rules this year to begin a relationship with Yamaha, using a mixture of its own chassis package with Yamaha engines and a version of the factory outfit's bike.

Lead rider Aleix Espargaro has been a frontrunner throughout the season, taking pole for the Dutch TT at Assen, and finishing fourth both in the Netherlands and Qatar.

A Forward statement said the 2015 agreement provided "A very competitive package that includes upgraded engine, frame, swingarm and linkage system" from Yamaha.

Forward team boss Giovanni Cuzaro said the Yamaha deal had been even more successful than expected so far.

"Last year, when we started this new adventure with Yamaha in MotoGP, it was difficult to imagine that we could get such good results," he said. "Thanks to the work of the team, the commitment and the professionalism of everybody, we have gained Yamaha's trust."

Stefan Bradl will join Forward from LCR Honda next year, when Espargaro is set to lead Suzuki's MotoGP return.

The identity of Bradl's teammate is yet to be decided. Veteran Colin Edwards started the year alongside Espargaro but struggled to adapt to the bike and brought his retirement from full-time racing forward to mid-season.

Alex de Angelis returned from Moto2 to MotoGP to replace him, yet has fared little better so far, finishing no higher than 14th in his two appearances to date.