125: Julian Simon confirms Moto2 move.

Newly crowned 125cc world champion Julian Simon has confirmed that he will move with his present Aspar team to the new Moto2 championship next season.

Having stepped back down to 125cc for this season, Simon stormed to five wins and ten podiums from the 14 races so far - and was crowned world champion after a final lap victory over team-mate Bradley Smith at Phillip Island last Sunday.

"Yes I will be in Moto2," said the Spaniard. "I am happy to go to a new category again. Last year I came back to 125 and now I have the opportunity to go back up to Moto2. I hope I can stay strong, have a good bike and make the best of it. Like everybody, one day I would like to reach MotoGP."

Whilst Simon's future has been decided, Smith is still mulling over options to remain with Aspar in 125GP or move to Moto2.

A Moto2 move would probably mean leaving the Aspar line-up, since present Aspar 250GP rider Mike di Meglio is tipped to partner Simon next season.

Moto2 will replace 250cc and feature 600cc four-stroke motorcycles with identical engines, electronics and tyres - but different chassis.