Christophe Charlier moves into the Rinaldi division of the factory Monster Energy Yamaha team for 2012 for what will be a crucial chapter of his career in the wake of two campaigns in which only flashes of his talent were seen.

The Corsican made his Grand Prix baptism in the 2010 MX2-GP Word Championship with a lot of expectation on his shoulders. The previous season’s European Champion (defeating the likes of Herlings, Gercar and Roczen), a former French Supercross Champion and well known for his fantastic ability on a dirt-bike, ‘CC’ was making the next step in an already bright ascension. 2010 would see glimpses of the brilliance that won 17 motos from 28 in Europe during ’09 but he ended his debut term in 12th after a dislocated thumb disrupted his learning curve. That Charlier had been able to win so much and build his profile away from Grands Prix is already a massive testament to his capabilities, particularly in a generation where France can already look to the likes of Musquin, Pourcel, Paulin, Frossard, Teillet and now Jordi Tixier for their motocross achievements.

In 2011 he looked to make a progression but small injury niggles interrupted any attempt at establishing a rhythm through the season in terms of results. He now comes under the stewardship of Michele Rinaldi and Mino Raspanti and with the formidable works YZ250F in his hands.

Chris is a shy but friendly and open character who integrated more into the international paddock as he gained confidence with his improving English. A fierce natural ability and flare on the motorcycle makes Charlier a special rider to watch and both his fans and Yamaha hope it will be at the front of the field in 2012.