Colin Edwards will switch to Forward Racing's new MotoGP program for the 2012 season. The deal was announced in a press conference at Misano, and ensures that the former World Superbike champion will stay in MotoGP for a 10th year.
Leading Moto2 squad Forward is joining MotoGP next year under the new Claiming Rule Teams system that is designed to boost the grid by allowing smaller teams to get easier access to chassis and engines. No details of Forward's technical package have yet been announced.
Edwards' move ends his three-year relationship with Tech 3 Yamaha, prior to which he had spent four seasons as Valentino Rossi's teammate in the factory Yamaha lineup.