Marc VDS Racing announces Elf title sponsorship deal

Elf will take over from Estrella Galicia 0,0 as title sponsor of the Marc VDS Moto2 team for the 2021 season.

The multi-title winning squad - with Tito Rabat (2014), Franco Morbidelli (2017) and Alex Marquez (2019) - has been backed by the French petroleum company since the inaugural 2010 Moto2 championship, but they will now take on top billing.

"I am very happy to have reached this agreement with a trusted and valued partner like Elf," said team owner Marc van der Straten. "It represents a new high point in our 12-year partnership, which is a milestone not easy to reach today in the world of motorcycling.

"Since day one, I have always said this relationship goes beyond mere sponsorship. It harnesses friendship, values and a culture of excellence and effort and this agreement reaffirms everything that makes our connection with Elf so special.

"I am proud to share the team's name with Elf. We are ambitious and we know where we want to go. Together we are stronger, and we will pursue our fourth World Championship with maximum desire and commitment."

VP of Total Competition Pierre-Gautier Caloni added: “With a range of cutting-edge products and a clear position, the ELF brand is proud to become title sponsor for the Marc VDS Racing team for the 2021 Moto2 World Championship.”

Sam Lowes, in contention for the 2020 Moto2 title until the Portimao finale, and team-mate Augusto Fernandez are both remaining with Marc VDS for 2021.