MotoGP star Stefan Bradl has confirmed he will switch to World Superbikes in 2017 after signing a one-year deal with Honda.

The German is thought to have had several offers in the WSBK paddock but has opted to move in alongside Nicky Hayden. Michael Van Der Mark will shift over to Pata Yamaha as replacement for Sylvain Guintoli.

“I’m really happy to join the Honda WorldSBK Team for the 2017 season. It’s a great opportunity for me and I’m really looking forward to this new challenge with a really competitive team and I’m sure we’ll do great things together,” said Bradl.

“Of course, this is going to be a whole new experience for me but I will try to adapt as quickly as possible, in order to get some really good results. I can’t wait to try the Fireblade and, obviously, it’ll be fantastic to work together with Nicky: I think it’s a fantastic combination because we understand each other really well. We can all look forward to the future and I am super motivated for this new journey.”