Bradl’s contract extended into 2014

Stefan Bradl has signed a one-year contract with LCR Honda on the back of securing his first ever MotoGP victory last time out in Laguna Seca.

The paddock was filled with rumours that Cal Crutchlow had been offered the HRC supported LCR Honda machine of Bradl’s prior to his home Grand Prix, however with Crutchlow’s confirmation on the Ducati these rumours were soon put to bed.

Bradl’s staggering form in recent races which has seen him claim his first pole position, and first podium in MotoGP, may have swayed the HRC bosses into keeping the German for another year.

“HRC’s support was extremely important for me in my first season in the premier class and, with their direct cooperation, I achieved my first podium in the top class this year,” said Bradl.

“I am happy to continue with Lucio’ s Team because we know each other very well now and we have built a professional and friendly atmosphere in the Team which allows me to be at 100% every race.”

HRC Vice President Shuhei Nakamoto was happy to annouce the extension of the German, and he said: “HRC is happy to continue working with Stefan in the LCR team in 2014.

“He is showing the performance we expected and he is working very well with Lucio’s team. We believe in them and we look forward to seeing Stefan on the podium again soon and many times in the future!”

Meanwhile LCR team manager Lucio Cecchinello said: “Being a part of HRC’s program and continuing our sport project with Stefan through to 2014 make us very happy and very proud.

“Stefan has amazed everybody at his debut in 2012 and is now showing his progress in the MotoGP class. His first MotoGP podium was a great result for him and for the whole Team so, from our side, we will do our best to support Stefan in 2014.”