Moto2: Federal Oil renews Gresini backing

Federal Oil will continue as a title sponsor for the Gresini Moto2 team in 2013.

The Indonesian brand joined forces with Gresini to back the bike of Gino Rea this year and will now continue the relationship by supporting new signing and 'home' rider Doni Tata Pradita next season.

"We are really happy to renew our agreement as title sponsor of Gresini Racing in the Moto2 World Championship," said Federal Oil's Rudy H. Husada.

"For 2013 we wanted to give the project a more Indonesian dynamic and provide Doni Tata Pradita with the opportunity to take his bow on the Moto2 stage.

"I am sure that Team Federal Oil Gresini Moto2 will do Indonesia proud and give the whole nation something to get excited about."

Pradita, whose most recent grand prix appearance was in the 1998 250cc World Championship, added:

"I want to thank Federal Oil and Gresini Racing for offering me the precious opportunity to compete in the Moto2 World Championship in 2013. I can't disguise my excitement at joining one of the biggest teams in the world.

"My first impressions during the tests at Valencia and Almeria were really positive. Everybody at Team Gresini was behind me and I am sure that with such professional support I can improve and do well."

Thai rider Ratthapark Wilairot will remain at Gresini on the team's second Suter entry.

Rea, who took Gresini's only podium of 2012, is being linked with the last remaining 'to be announced' place at the ESGP (FTR) team.

Gresini won the inaugural 2012 Moto2 title with Toni Elias and the Moriwaki chassis.