The French-based Monster Yamaha Tech 3 Team has one of the longest satellite team histories in MotoGP, first entering into the series in 1989. Located in Provence in southern France, the team was created by Herve Poncharal and colleagues and began its Grand Prix adventure contesting the 250cc World Championship.

In 1995 the team signed emerging talent Olivier Jacque, the French rider going on to win a dramatic 250 title in the last race against team-mate Shinya Nakano at Phillip Island in 2000, one of the closest finishes to a title fight in history.


In 2001 Tech 3 further enhanced its growing reputation by joining the MotoGP class, starting a long and successful collaboration with Yamaha in the premier series. 
Nakano claimed Tech 3’s first MotoGP podium in Germany in 2001. Since then some of the biggest talents in racing have spent time riding for Tech 3, including Norick Abe, Carlos Checa, Alex Barros, Marco Melandri and Andrea Dovizioso.

Now a key partner of Yamaha’s hugely successful MotoGP effort, Tech 3 has enjoyed tremendous success in its recent history, largely thanks to charismatic American Colin Edwards.
 For 2013 the Monster Yamaha Tech3 Team retains British rider Cal Crutchlow for his third season along with team newcomer Bradley Smith, starting his first season in MotoGP.