Just hours after leaving the Rizla Suzuki MotoGP team, Alvaro Bautista is now lapping Valencia aboard the ex-Hiro Aoyama Gresini Honda RC212V and has just done a 1'33.8s lap. The Spaniard will replace Marco Simoncelli in the team but it is doubtful he will have the same HRC backing as the late Italian.

Team boss Fausto Gresini said: "I’m particularly satisfied that Álvaro Bautista will ride a Honda RC213V in the San Carlo Honda Gresini team colours next year. He is a very fast rider and I hold him in high regard for his personality and pleasant nature too. I am sure he will integrate into our group swiftly and that we will enjoy some notable experiences together in the future.”