Everts sticks with Yamaha for 2005.

Motocross legend Stefan Everts and has re-signed with Yamaha for the 2005 MX1 world championship season.

The Belgian star will remain in the Michele Rinaldi managed Yamaha L&M Motocross Team, alongside current team-mate C?dric Melotte, who has also be retained.

Everts joined Yamaha in 2001 and has delivered a world title in each of his three years on the blue bikes: He won back-to-back world titles in the 500cc class in 2001 and 2002, then last year added the MXGP world title to his already impressive tally.

The 31-year-old currently leads the MX1 world championship with a stunning 97 points over second-placed Mickael Pichon, putting him well on course for his eighth world title. Everts has won five GPs this year.

Meanwhile, early season revelation Melotte has made considerable progress, advancing from privateer in the 650 class last year to race winner in the MX1 class this year.

The 25-year-old not only won the opening GP this year, but was runner-up in the MX1 championship until the Italian GP. Despite mid-season injuries C?dric is now sixth in standings.