Tonus back in the fold for French Grand Prix

Monster Energy Yamaha is very happy to welcome Arnaud Tonus back to action this weekend at St Jean D’Angely for the Grand Prix of France and the sixth round of sixteen in the FIM Motocross World Championship. The reigning British Champion will pilot his factory YZ250F for the first time on the international stage this season after recovering from wrist and shoulder injuries.

The Swiss has been riding for over a week and feels in sufficient condition and happy enough with his speed to be able to roll into the Grand Prix paddock and aim to make an impression on the top half of the MX2-GP pack this weekend. “Obviously I was a bit sore at first but it was great to get back on the bike and I’ve kept in good shape,” the 20 year old said. “I’ve been putting in the laps while the guys were coming home from Brazil and I believe  I’m ready to start my Grand Prix year with these next couple of races in a row. I’m looking forward to it and it’ll be great to be back with the team and on the works Yamaha.” 

The talented youngster will be joined by 2012 Italian Grand Prix runner-up Michael Leib. The American has made a very positive contribution to the factory squad since stepping into the set-up as a late replacement rider at round two. The 20 year old was partnered in the opening meetings of the series by Britain’s Mel Pocock and the British championship aspirant will kick off his seven-round European MX2 campaign at St Jean D’Angely. 

In the Rinaldi-led division of Monster Energy Yamaha Steven Frossard approaches his home Grand Prix and the venue where he tasted victory in 2011 in a positive frame of mind after two beneficial weeks of training and practicing. The ’11 MX1-GP championship runner-up was able to bounce back from a difficult two weeks in Mexico and Brazil to regain some form and confidence with his right knee while pushing hard on the YZ450FM over the last fortnight. ‘183’ is now hopeful of a decent showing in front of his many fans and remains optimistic of further GP appearances for the rest of 2012
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