De Graaf Grand Prix add Bonsey, Van den Berg and Aprilia to 2008 lineup

Whilst British teenager Danny Webb's continuation with the DeGraaf Grand Prix team for a second season in 125cc had been confirmed just before the final day of the 2007 schedule, it was not until the publication of the category's entry list last weekend that the 16 year-old's team-mates for 2008 were officially announced.

DeGraaf, running new Aprilia machines for the coming season, have lined up a youthful triumvirate consisting of Webb, Stevie Bonsey and Hugo van den Berg. Bonsey makes the switch from KTM, with whom he undertook his rookie World Championship season in 2007 after success in dirt track racing, whilst Van den Berg represents some home interest for the Dutch-backed 125cc team.

"I am really happy to race for the DeGraaf Grand Prix Team in 2008," exclaimed 17 year-old Bonsey shortly after the announcement. "After a reasonably successful rookie season, I think that much better results are possible for next year. I have already ridden the Aprilia during a test and race in November and was pleased with the performance of the machine. The factory kitted Aprilia has proven to be a very competitive machine."

The American experienced a tough learning curve in his maiden year in 125cc, having to get to grips with not only new tracks, but the entire concept of adapting his dirtbike style to roadracing. Next year he will be expecting more than the four points achieved in his rookie season, particularly at MotoGP's first 125cc visit to his homeland.

"Now that I know most of the race tracks, I am really looking forward to my second season in the Championship. I think it is really cool that my home GP will be at Indy. I can't wait! Also, I got to know Danny and Hugo last season. They are good guys and I look forward to working with them as team-mates."

With some healthy competition provided by the addition of Bonsey and Van den Berg, Danny Webb also has a little extra motivation to build on his first year on the world stage.

"The winter lasts much too long for me!" said Webb, now back home in Kent, England. "I cannot wait until the first kilometres are in process for 2008."

"I am very glad with the switch to the Aprilia and I think that I can make a big step forward with this bike. In 2008, my paddock mate Hugo van den Berg will be my team-mate along with Stevie Bonsey I know Stevie very well from the paddock and I think we have, with the three of us, a strong team for 2008."