Marco Simoncelli signs new Honda contract

Marco Simoncelli has agreed a new contract with Fausto Gresini’s Honda squad and he will retain his factory rider status with HRC in 2012.

The controversial Italian, who has scored just one podium finish in a turbulent 2011 campaign, will get equal technical support to factory Honda duo Casey Stoner and Dani Pedrosa in the inaugural 1000cc world championship.

The former 250GP world champion, who briefly talked to Ducati earlier in the season, said: “To be wearing the colours of Team San Carlo Honda Gresini for another year and riding a Honda RC213V gives me a lot of satisfaction.

“To be kept on as part of project that Honda HRC are so supportive of in collaboration with Team San Carlo Honda Gresini gives me a lot of confidence and all the motivation I need to show that I can be amongst the best in MotoGP again.

“2012 will be an important season for me and I want to give all those people who have believed in this project plenty to get excited about.”

The future of current Repsol Honda rider Andrea Dovizioso should be finalised during this weekend’s Japanese Grand Prix at the Twin Ring Motegi.

Dovizioso has been locked in talks with LCR Honda and Monster Yamaha Tech 3 about a 2012 deal and a decision on his future is expected this weekend.

Tech 3 team boss Herve Poncharal confirmed he made the former 125GP world champion an offer during the recent Motorland Aragon round, while the French squad is also negotiating with factory Suzuki rider Alvaro Bautista.

Poncharal told MCN: “Both of them have an offer, so now it is up to them.”