Yamaha fans everywhere can rejoice as Colin Edwards->ke1448 will be joining the team again for the 2011 MotoGP season. Edwards has confirmed that he has resigned for a new one year contract with his team Monster Yamaha Tech 3->ke1438. The new contract is an extension of his current contract with the team.

The 36-year-old Edwards made the announcement after completing his 100th race at the Gran Premio A-Style de Aragon in Spain last Sunday. He joined the Yamaha team in 2008 and has since become one of the most prominent riders of the team. He had an outstanding stint with Yamaha last year, winning the top non factory rider award. Edwards started in the MotoGP->ke1254 circuit in 2003, riding for Aprilia->ke1934.

Edwards is currently number 11 in the world rankings, with his best start at seventh position at Laguna Seca, Brno, and Misano. And despite having a disappointing 12th place finish in last Sunday's race, he was still able to maintain his current position.

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Edwards said that he was very happy with the move. He also gave thanks to the Yamaha Tech 3 team for their support. “I am honored to continue my long and successful relationship with Yamaha, Hene Poncharal and all of Tech 3.”

“I love the team and feel like part of a big family and I am thrilled that our adventure together is continuing next year,” he said enthusiastically.

For his part, Tech 5 team head Hene Poncharal said that he is also very delighted to be working with Edwards again for the 2011 season. He goes on to further describe Edwards as a highly prolific racer. “His (Edwards) appetite and passion for racing is stronger than ever and he has been an incredible asset to the Monster Yamaha Tech 3 team.”

Another thing that fans will be looking forward to in Edwards' new stint with Yamaha is his matchup with rookie Cal Crutchlow for the next season. Crutchlow has been making a good impression in other racing circuits and he is finally entering MotoGP for the 2011 season. Both Edwards and Poncharal welcomed the newcomer to the team.

“This is a good line up and for sure Cal will be looking forward to hearing advice from Colin.” Poncharal said. “This year, the atmosphere between Colin and Cal is excellent.” He also said that Edwards will act like an advisor to Crutchlow on the track.