Yamaha has announced a strengthened factory lineup for its 2009 national road racing program, including the new ASBK Championship and selected supports.
Following another solid season, Jamie and Daniel Stauffer return to the fore in the Superbike class, set to pilot twin 2009 YZF-R1 Superbikes in their pursuit of the title.
Australia’s fastest siblings finished second and third respectively in 2008, winning five of seven rounds between them.
Jamie said the continuity would ensure the team was well-prepared for the season opener at the Phillip Island World Superbike event at the end of February.
“I’m really looking forward to the new season and what it holds for the team, there will be plenty of changes with the new championship structure and I believe we’re well placed to take advantage,” said Stauffer.
“The race for the 2008 title was close and 2009 will be competitive also – the package we have is a race winner and I’ll be doing everything I can to ensure the championship is back with YRT and Yamaha.”
The 28-year-old will also contest the Supersport class, aiming to defend the title he won in dominant fashion.
Daniel is aiming to be a title threat once more following his most successful season of results to date.
“We’re looking to really build on 2008 and keep the good results going in the new year with the new 2009 R1 coming on board,” said Stauffer.
“My focus now is training and keeping as fit as I can before we start the testing program early next year ahead of the opening round.
“The Superbike class is as tough as ever but the team and sponsors we have behind us are the best in the business – I can’t wait to get started.”
Crew Chief Kev Marshall will oversee the Superbike garage once again in 2009.
Bryan Staring will make a welcome return to the factory Supersport team as lead rider in 2009.
The team feel Staring’s best is yet to come after a year when his on-track progress was severely hampered by injury.
Staring was enthusiastic about the prospect of racing the R6 once more.
“I’m excited to be on board with the team and very happy to learn that we’ll have the same technicians and mechanics on board, I’ve enjoyed a strong relationship with them in the past and feel this will be an important step towards success in 2009,” said Staring.
“I’ve kept up the training since the final round and will continue to step things up in the leadup to the first round, I’m confident I will be as fit as I have ever been and ready to take up the championship fight.”
Pat Medcalf will join Yamaha’s factory operation in 2009 following a standout Superstock class win this season.
The 19-year-old has just two years of road racing experience under his belt but has demonstrated the aptitude and racecraft of a learned rider on the track.
Medcalf will campaign a 2009 YZF-R1 in Superstock specifications for the newly-incepted 1000cc Superstock class.
The young gun said he was looking forward to the new year and teaming up with a leading force in road racing.
A long-standing member of Yamaha’s factory team, Marty Dowd will act as Crew Chief for Staring and Medcalf.
Yamaha Racing Team Principal John Redding said the 2009 lineup was made up of a mix of experience and youthful exuberance with one common goal – success.
“We’re pleased to confirm another very strong lineup of road racers for the 2009 season and are confident that each and every one can be a championship challenger,” said Redding.
“Continuity is key in the Superbike class; both Jamie and Daniel are well prepared to pick up where they left off and continue winning races and rounds.
“It is great to have have Bryan Staring back on board and we look forward to seeing him realise his potential.
“Pat Medcalf is an exciting addition to the team. We had been keeping a close eye on his progress and feel he has a rare natural instinct for racing which we hope will see him succeed in the new Superstock 1000 class next year.”