Stefan Bradl testing the Honda RC212V at Valencia - Photo Credit: MotoGP.com
The reigning Moto2 World Champion, Stefan Bradl, will move up to the MotoGP class in 2012 after signing a two-year contract with the LCR Honda team. The German pipped Marc Marquez to finish top of the intermediate class before catching the eye of LCR during a two-day test at Valencia last week.
Bradl will replace the previous Moto2 title holder Toni Elias and will hope for better luck than the Spaniard who struggled throughout 2011 on the RC212V. After testing the same bike at the Ricardo Tormo circuit, Bradl is confident that the team will help him make his debut MotoGP season a success.
“This is simply fantastic like a dream that comes true! When I tested the RC212V in Valencia I realized that LCR Team is very professional and well organized so I am sure they will do their best to support me: making my debut in the premier class aboard the RC213V is great and I can't wait to get back on track”.
Team Manager Lucio Cecchinello believes Bradl has the potential to be successful in the 1000cc era of Grand Prix racing, justifying his multi-year contract.
“Next year will be very important for the MotoGP; starting from next April the championship will be rich of new technical rules and participants. Together with Honda we have considered several riders and Stefan was one of our candidates. After the test in Valencia we were very impressed by his potential and his determination: Stefan is young and fast and he just clinched the Moto2 World Title so we believe we can grow together with the Team in the next two years. He already knew the technical staff and today I am happy to give him our warmest welcome in the LCR Team!”.
