Tech 3 delighted with new Colin Edwards deal

Tech 3 Yamaha boss Herve Poncharal has spoken of his delight at the signing of Colin Edwards for the 2009 MotoGP world championship.

Edwards will stay with the French-based team for at least one more season after he confirmed a new deal at Laguna Seca.

The 34-year-old is currently enjoying his best ever premier class campaign and his new deal completes the Tech 3 Yamaha line-up for 2009.

British rider James Toseland signed an extended deal for ’09 at the Estoril GP in Portugal back in April, while Tech 3 also secured a new two-year deal with Yamaha at the same race.

Poncharal said: “It is a great pleasure to be able to announce that Colin has renewed his contract with the Tech 3 team for 2009. It has been a privilege to work with him and I am delighted that he has decided to stay for at least one more season.

“Tech 3 has been back on the podium and back in pole position for the first time in a long time in 2008 and that is thanks to Colin. I am happy that he has been able to produce the best results of his MotoGP career so far with Tech 3, which is also testament to the hard work and effort Yamaha made in the last few months.

“Although he has only been with us for ten races, the relationship is so great that it feels like he has been part of the team for many years. He has been a great asset to the team and Yamaha both on and off the track, and he was an incredibly important figure during last winter to develop the bike and Michelin tyres to a highly competitive level.

“With his unique personality, Colin has brought a great atmosphere to the garage, and together with James, we are proud to have two such dedicated riders. To have both Colin and James signed already, and a two-year deal in place with Yamaha until the end of 2010, the future has never looked brighter for Tech 3.

“It is also significant and satisfying for us to announce this new contract at the American Grand Prix, because it is a hugely important market for Yamaha, and a race where Colin has huge support.”