Moto2: Simeon to race third Tech 3

There will be three Tech 3 Moto2 bikes on the 2011 grid following the news of a late deal for Xavier Simeon to run an RTL Sport-backed bike.

The Belgian, a former FIM Superstock Cup champion in both 600cc and 1000cc, rode in ten Moto2 races for the Holiday Gym G22 (Moriwaki) team last season.

Simeon scored points on three occasions, including an eighth place at Silverstone.

"This was a last minute opportunity that immediately interested me," said Tech 3 team manager Herve Poncharal. "I had the opportunity to observe Xavier on track last season and his performances caught my attention.

"Having a third Mistral 610 will help us develop technically as well as giving us another opportunity for good results.

"Xavier is the only Belgian rider at this level, and will have his own RTL Sport colours. We are happy to work with RTL to further expand the audience of Moto2. The entire Tech 3 team welcomes this exciting collaboration."

"We thank Herve Poncharal and his team for agreeing to meet this challenge with us," said Freddy Tacheny, CEO of RTL Belgium. "We will closely follow our Belgian No. 1 by broadcasting all races in Moto2."

Simeon's deal means he joins Bradley Smith and Mike di Meglio at Tech 3 for 2011.

Tech 3 took one win and one further podium during the first year of Moto2 racing.