Leon Haslam has today put pen to paper in Magny Cours and will race with the Hannspree Stiggy Motorsport team in World Superbikes in 2009.

Haslam, 25, has been weighing up options in the World Superbike and British Superbike paddocks but has decided the world scene is where ne needs to be and told HM Plant Honda boss Neil Tuxworth of his decision last night.

"It’s been a hard choice but I think it’s the right one," says Haslam, speaking to www.bikesportnews.com. "I always wanted to stay with Honda and it’s time for me to step back onto the world stage with them.

"I really enjoyed being with HM Plant Honda in British Superbikes and the second half of the season has been great with the race wins. I am still looking forward to Brands Hatch and the last WSB round in Portugal. I have to thank all the guys at HM Plant for putting a good bike under me, it’s been a really enjoyable time."
Team manager Johan Stigefelt said: "I’m really happy to increase our team by entering the Superbikes World Championship and continuing our close relationship with Honda Motor Europe. Next year will be a huge challenge for all of us, but I believe we are ready for it. After four years of knowledge and experience in the Supersport class, we are looking forward to this new adventure. We have high expectations and will work our hardest to achieve our goals.”

It is believed that Haslam’s team-mate will be Stiggy’s Supersport rider Josh Brookes who will move up a class.
HM Plant Honda Team Manager, Havier Beltran, said: “Leon has had a great year and worked very hard with the HM Plant Honda team to achieve good development of the new Fireblade and excellent race results on track. We made Leon an offer to stay with the team for 2009 but we fully understand his desire to return to the World Superbike Championship, support him in his decision and wish him great success for next season."