World Supersport standout Josh Hayes has decided to return to the United States in 2009 after concluding a deal to race for Yamaha in the AMA Superbike Championship.

A multiple Formula Extreme Champion, Hayes showed off his skills on the European stage towards the end of this season after being signed by the Parkalgar Honda team.

Culminating in a marvellous run to fourth place in the season-ending Portimao event, a race he actually led for a brief time, there was an expectation that he might be retained by the team for a full campaign in 2009.

However, with the team having already confirmed Eugene Laverty as their lead rider for next season, Hayes has since been confirmed as Yamaha's new Superbike rider in AMA this season.

One quarter of a four rider line-up, Hayes joins Ben Bostrom, Josh Herrin and Tommy Aquino in the team.