Mapfre Aspar opt for Simón and Di Meglio partnership in Moto2

Current 125cc World Champion Julián Simón and 2008 title holder Mike Di Meglio will both ride in the inaugural Moto2 season for the Mapfre Aspar team in 2010.

Making the graduation to 4-stroke Aprilia machines, the pair will benefit from the Italian-based manufacturer’s and their Aspar team’s transfer of experience from the 250cc class to the new Moto2 category.

Both riders are confident in their ability to adapt to the challenge, with Simón having signed a two-year deal with the aim of achieving a MotoGP ride on Aspar’s Ducati machine, which will start to compete in next year’s premier class. Di Meglio’s strong debut season in the 250cc class has been rewarded with a further one-year deal, with an extension option should the Frenchman impress in Moto2.

“I’m keen to see the Aprilia Moto2 machine out on the track,” said Jorge Martinez Aspar. “I think it’s undoubtedly a great project for us. For several years the Aspar team has chosen to compete in the 125cc and 250cc World Championship classes. Now there will be a change in category, but the objective remains the same.”

“With Mike and Julián we have made a winning bet,” Aspar continued. “Mike was World Champion one year ago, and this season has had some great races in 250cc, so to continue with him is a good starting point. Julián is the current 125cc World Champion and is a rider I think will bring us much happiness in Moto2.”