Casey Stoner continues Honda MotoGP test role

Former two-time world champion Casey Stoner will again be aboard Honda MotoGP machinery this year, committing to two tests with the factory squad.

Honda has confirmed that Stoner will help develop its latest RC213V offering at Sepang, Malaysia, from January 29-31.

The now 29-year-old, who retired from MotoGP competition at the end of the 2012 season, will also join the team for a second hit-out later in the year.

The work is a continuation of Stoner’s previous duties that saw him test with the manufacturer as recently as last October.

“After having a long break from riding, it was refreshing to get back on a bike a few months ago,” said Stoner in a statement.

“Now after a relaxing Christmas and New Year I’m happy to announce that I’ve been speaking to Nakamoto san and we have come to an agreement in continuing our relationship.

“I am currently preparing to ride in Sepang in a few weeks which will be very different weather and humidity to Motegi, so I need to get myself fit.”

HRC executive vice president, Shuhei Nakamoto expects Stoner to again contribute towards the team’s performance, which has yielded consecutive titles with Spaniard Marc Marquez since Stoner’s retirement.

“We are very happy to be able to start 2015 by announcing the continuation of our relationship with Casey and keep him in the Honda family,” he said.

“The feedback he gives HRC is invaluable and we are fortunate to have a test rider capable to push the RC213V to its limits”