Team Estrella Galicia 0,0 Marc VDS has announced current Moto2 championship contender Thomas Lüthi will graduate to the premier MotoGP category with the outfit in 2018.

Lüthi, who sits second in the Moto2 standings, will join current Moto2 championship leader Franco Morbidelli aboard Honda’s RC213V machine in place of outgoing riders Jack Miller and Tito Rabat.

Marc VDS Racing Team president Marc van der Straten commented on the new signing, stating he believes the Swiss rider is a good fit for the team as he will embark on his rookie season.

“There were a number of options open to us when we were looking for a MotoGP rider for the 2018 season,” said van der Straten. “But Thomas Lüthi was the unanimous choice, despite him being a MotoGP rookie.

“A former 125cc World Champion, his consistency over seven seasons in Moto2 has been incredible, with a sixth place in 2013 the only time he’s finished outside the top five in the championship.

“He’s been a constant thorn in our side in the intermediate class and this year is no different, with his consistency again making him a serious threat to our title aspirations. Tom is a good fit for our team and I am both happy and proud to welcome him to the Marc VDS racing family.”

It was announced earlier this month that Australia’s Miller would depart the Marc VDS squad in favour of joining the Octo Pramac Ducati team.