Stop and Go develop 2011 plans further

The Stop and Go team has moved along its plans for the 2011 Moto2 season with confirmation of the signature of Santiago Hernández. The 18 year-old Colombian will line up alongside Thai rider Ratthapark Wilairot, who remains with the team directed by Eduardo Perales for a fifth year and who is currently recovering in a Bangkok hospital following a road motorcycle accident suffered last week.

Wilairot and his new team-mate will ride British manufactured FTR chassis in 2011 as the team makes the switch from the Bimota frame it used in the inaugural 2010 campaign.

“I'm delighted to make the step up to the World Championship and I'm sure that with Eduardo Perales' experience I can develop as a rider,” said Hernández, who placed 23rd at Aragón in September. “I know I'll have to adapt to a lot of new circuits, but with the help of my brother (Blusens STX Moto2 rider in 2010 Yonny) this should be easier. Next year will be tough, but I will work hard in order to progress as a rider and achieve good results in my first season.”

Edu Perales commented: “Santiago Hernández has shown he is an able rider that can compete in the Moto2 World Championship, and we're sure he can achieve very good results next season. I hope this partnership will be productive for both sides and we want him to feel at home from day one.”

Team boss Perales, who was due to return to Spain today (Thursday) after visiting Wilairot in Bangkok following the Thai's accident in which he suffered severe bruising to his hands and head last week, explained to motogp.com that the rider is recovering well and is expected to leave the Intensive Care Unit of the Bumrungrad Hospital imminently.