The 36-year-old Australian’s skill and determination has impressed Fogarty during a difficult season for FPR in a rejuvenated championship.

Carl said: “I am very pleased Steve is staying with us for next year. He is very highly thought of within the sport and he is great to have around the place. He always gives 100 per cent in both racing and during testing and development of the bike. He is probably the best all-rounder we have had riding the PETRONAS FP1.”

Steve said: “I am really happy to stay with FPR for next year, especially after the amount of progress that we have made. We are now consistently in the top ten and I believe we have not finished improving the bike yet. The guys that I have been working with have showed me a whole new level of professionalism and that has been a major influence in my decision.”

Steve has achieved five podium finishes and three pole positions in his 133 race starts since his debut in the championship in 1988. The highlight of this campaign was qualifying in second place on the Phillip Island grid, just six hundredths of a second off pole position.

With two rounds of the season remaining, Steve’s team-mate, Garry McCoy, and the team are considering their options for next season.