Monster Yamaha Tech 3 are set for an all new line up in 2017 as Johann Zarco is set to join Jonas Folger.

The 2015 Moto2™ World Champion and current joint leader of this year’s intermediate contest, will move up to the premier class with the French Tech3 team and make his debut on the Yamaha YZR-M1 at the post season Valencia test.

The Cannes born rider began his Grand Prix career in 2009 where he competed in the 125cc class, with his highlight in the lightweight series being the runner up in the championship standings in 2011. The 25 year old then stepped up to the intermediate class and since then has produced some determined and eye catching rides across the five seasons so far, where he has amassed 11 victories, nine pole positions and 14 podium finishes as well as his well deserved world title in 2015.

In 2016 Zarco is looking to seal back to back championship wins in the ultra competitive Moto2™ class and will be joined by series rival Jonas Folger in the all-new line up for the Monster Yamaha Tech3 Team in 2017, with the Frenchman’s contract including an option for a second season.

Johann Zarco:

“It goes without saying that I am very happy to join the MotoGP class with Tech3 and I am confident that we can form a solid partnership. The team has a deep relationship and long history with Yamaha and they have proved that they can manage well in every situation and have had a good package year after year. This pleases me and it gives me extra motivation for reaching my targets in the 2017 season. Of course, it seems like a logical step for a French team and a French champion to work together, and now finally the deal is done which is certainly positive news. I really will do my best and prepare myself for the maximum because I think it’s more than possible to get some top results in MotoGP after my long experience in the intermediate class.”