"Team Gresini has been our strategic partner in grand prix racing for many years and we will once again supply the team with a RC212V factory spec machine for one of their riders.

"Fausto Gresini leads a very well managed team with excellent technical staff, they are all very dedicated and determined people with a passion for racing and the desire to succeed. The team receive precious support from their title sponsor San Carlo and we all look forward to another successful season together."

Gresini Honda has won 14 MotoGP races since its 2002 debut, courtesy of Sete Gibernau (8), Marco Melandri (5) and Elias (1).

The return of Elias leaves Shinya Nakano, currently riding a valve-spring factory RCV for Gresini, facing an uncertain future. The Japanese has been linked with a HRC testing role, but Gresini indicated that the former 250cc title contender aims to continue racing.

"At last an acknowledgment to Shinya Nakano who contributed to another chapter of Gresini Racing. I wish him good luck in continuing his career," said Gresini.

The only remaining 2009 MotoGP seat on a Japanese motorcycle is the still-to-be-confirmed third Kawasaki.