Young British prospect Kyle Ryde has won backing from Racing Steps Foundation and will switch to the Spanish CEV series this season and ride for Mark Keen's KRP outfit in Moto3.

Ryde rode the prototype for the first time at the final round of the 2012 CEV Moto3 Championship at Valencia in November where he finished ninth.

The one-off ride was part of the RSF's rigorous rider assessment process which takes into account fitness, communication and technical feedback skills, personality, mindset and racecraft. He replaces 2012 CEV Moto3 front-runner John McPhee who steps up to the Moto3 World Championship this year with continued funding from the RSF.

"I'm really grateful to have been handed this opportunity by the RSF. It's not easy for British riders to find the backing to make their way up the ladder in this sport. So to get this level of support is incredible," said Ryde.

"My mum and dad have had to work so hard to raise the money needed for me to go racing each season, so this means all their efforts - and the fantastic support we've had from some really loyal sponsors in the past - hasn't been wasted.

"Racing in Spain against some of the best riders in the world at this level, with a top team like KRP, on a really competitive bike is a dream come true," he added. "It takes me to the doorstep of a world championship ride.

"So now it's down to me to show everyone that their faith in me is fully justified. I've got a lot to learn, including getting a better understanding of the KRP bike and the new circuits I'll be racing on - so the sooner I can get started, the better."