Lorenzo signs to stay with Yamaha

Lorenzo is on the verge of winning the MotoGP crown

Spain's Jorge Lorenzo, firmly on course for his first MotoGP title, has signed a two-year deal to stay with Yamaha.

The 23-year-old will continue with the Japanese manufacturer in 2011 and 2012, having joined its team in 2008.

"My first choice was always to stay here with Yamaha and I am very glad that this will happen," said Lorenzo, who leads the standings by 56 points.

"Now we are focused on winning the championship but I am already excited about next season."

Lorenzo can secure his first senior class crown with strong performances in Japan this weekend and in Malaysia next week, and if second-placed Dani Pedrosa, who broke a collarbone Friday and pulled out of the Motegi race, also misses Malaysia.

There are five races left on this season's calendar.

Lorenzo will be joined next season by American rider Ben Spies, who has agreed to move to the Yamaha factory team to replace reigning champion Valentino Rossi, who will ride a Ducati in 2011.

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"I know that Ben and I can do a great job for Yamaha and I want to thank them for their belief in me," Lorenzo added.

Yamaha Motor Racing managing director Lin Jarvis expressed his delight at renewing Lorenzo's deal.

"I am particularly pleased to finally get the agreement in place here in Japan," he said.

"It will now enable Jorge to focus all of his efforts and concentration in the coming weeks to try to secure his first MotoGP class rider's title."

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