Thomas Luthi returns to Moto2 in 2019
Thomas Luthi has officially confirmed his brief MotoGP adventure will end after a single season by signing to join the Dynavolt Intact Moto2 team.
A double Moto2 title runner-up, Luthi moved to MotoGP with Marc VDS this season. However the Swiss is yet to score a point and the team is closing its MotoGP project at the end of this season, when team-mate Franco Morbidelli will join the new SIC Yamaha project.
"MotoGP is still a dream come true for me - but circumstances have not made it easy for me in recent months," Luthi said, referring to the Marc VDS management dispute and future uncertainty.
"Now I am very happy that such a great door has opened for the next years. Dynavolt Intact GP is a strong, safe and well-organised team in which top performances are possible.
"I am looking forward to this next chapter and with the support of my partners, fans and family I am looking forward to give it all again next year in Moto2. My dream continues - and now I am once again fully focused on the second half of my MotoGP season."
Luthi is set to take the place of Xavi Vierge, who looks to be joining the Marc VDS Moto2 team, and ride alongside Marcel Schrotter on Kalex machinery in what will be the first season of the new 765cc Triumph engines and Magneti-Marelli ECU.
"I think it's great that Tom is coming to us," said team boss Jurgen Lingg. "His MotoGP experience will definitely help him next year when a new chapter in Moto2 will open with Triumph engines and Marelli electronics.
"In addition, his many victories in the past show that he is a very good Moto2 rider. This is an optimal combination. He brings everything you need for this new class. We look forward to a common future and of course we will strive to provide him with the best possible package.