Factory Honda contract keeps Crutchlow at LCR

Crutchlow is now into his third season with leading Honda satellite squad LCR, with which he won two grands prix in 2016, and has been taking on an increasing test and development workload for the factory.

Honda's announcement of Crutchlow's new deal also confirmed that it was continuing with LCR as well.

Tetsuhiro Kuwata, general manager of HRC's race operations management division, said of Crutchlow and LCR: "We really appreciate the work they're doing, and we decided to confirm our relationship and even elevate it by having Cal under contract directly with HRC."

Crutchlow added that he was "positive that we will enjoy more great results together".

He had suggested at the last MotoGP round at Barcelona that he had options elsewhere in the paddock, including with factory teams, but that he saw no reason not to continue with LCR and Honda.

The British rider's 2016 wins were the first in MotoGP for LCR, and team principal Lucio Cecchinello said he was delighted that their partnership would be extended.

"Cal is undoubtedly one of the most competitive and talented riders in MotoGP, and thanks to HRC's support, we are honoured to work with him again for the next two years," said Cecchinello.

"Cal gave us our first ever victory in the premier class of MotoGP and further important results. I want to thank all those who worked and supported this project so far, first and foremost HRC."

LCR is expected to add a second bike next season, with Moto2 race winner Takaaki Nakagami tipped to ride it.