Source: Supplied.

Monster Yamaha Tech3 has announced the signing of Moto2 front-runner Jonas Folger for the 2017 MotoGP World Championship on Thursday at Le Mans.

The 22-year old has been competing in world championship races since 2008 and he has since battled to 16 podiums and four race victories across all fields.

Folger, who comes off the back of a second place finish at the previous GP in Jerez, will get his first taste of the Yamaha YZR-M1 MotoGP bike at the post-season Valencia test in November.

“I am super-excited about the news and I still can’t believe this is happening,” Folger beamed. “I have been racing for years in the motorcycling world championship and to make the move up to the premier class is a dream come true, plus I’d like to thank all my sponsors that have stuck by me all these years.

“Furthermore, it’s an honour to make this step with Yamaha, Herve Poncharal and Tech3 team who have such a long and deep history in the paddock. I will try my absolute best to repay the faith the team has put in me and I’m really looking forward to the new adventure.

“I will remain completely focused for the rest of the year in the intermediate class, but I can’t wait for Valencia where I will sample the Yamaha YZR-M1 for the first time.”

Monster Yamaha Tech3 team manager Herve Poncharal said: “It’s always a very important and tough decision to make when it’s time for us to choose a young rider to start his career in the MotoGP class.

“We have been thinking a lot about who has the best profile to replace Brad, who has done a great job with Tech3 for four years and is now ready to move to a full factory team. Having thoroughly checked all the names and details of the young riders in various championships, the name Jonas Folger came out on top.

“He’s a nice person, very fast and he is going to have a strong season in Moto2 this year, where he hopefully will win the title which would be the dream situation. I am really pleased to announce that Jonas will join us before our home GP in Le Mans.

“It may be difficult to predict what will happen, as some riders adapt instantly whilst others need some time, but I am certain that he will be fast, have fun and become a strong Monster Yamaha Tech3 rider. I’d like to welcome him and I want to assure Jonas that the whole team and Yamaha Factory Racing are very happy that he will join us.”