Forward to keep full Yamaha package, Baz close

Forward Racing announce Yamaha engine, frame, swingarm and linkage package for MotoGP 2015, Loris Baz close to second seat.
Forward to keep full Yamaha package, Baz close

After the shock of seeing an Aspar Honda ride fall through, Loris Baz looks to be on the verge of clinching the remaining 2015 Forward Yamaha seat alongside Stefan Bradl.

"I had a contract signed before [with Aspar] so I prefer to stay calm and be sure before saying anything," replied Baz, when asked about the Forward deal.

The Kawasaki World Superbike rider is at Aragon this weekend, where it has also been announced that Yamaha will offer Forward an 'upgraded engine, frame, swingarm and linkage system' for 2015.

Yamaha had initially indicated that only engines would be provided after the first year of the new Open class Forward partnership.

"Last year, when we started this new adventure with Yamaha in MotoGP, it was difficult to imagine that we could get such good results," said Forward team owner Giovanni Cuzari.

"Thanks to the work of the team, the commitment and the professionalism of everybody, we have gained Yamaha's trust and I'm proud to announce that our partnership with Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd will continue also in the 2015 season. We will count on a competitive package that includes engine, frame, swingarm and linkage.

"The 2015 program will officially commence at the Valencia test with Stefan Bradl and a second rider that will be announced soon."

While lead rider Aleix Espargaro has raced the Yamaha package, Forward has also been developing its own frame with Colin Edwards and then Alex de Angelis for much of this season.

The class-leading Forward Yamaha is expected to face stiff opposition from the new Honda RC213V-RS Open bike next season.

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