Image: Supplied.

Red Bull KTM Factory Racing has extended its contract with youthful talent Tom Vialle through to the 2021 season of the MX2 World Championship.

The 18-year-old rookie has impressed during the first seven rounds of the 2019 series, claiming his maiden podium at the MXGP of Great Britain, while securing a trio of top three moto results as he fights for a top five position in the championship rankings.

“I’m very happy to extend my contract for another two years,” said Vialle. “I could not learn in a better way at this level than being surrounded by the best team. I have taken onboard so much already in just a few months.

“It is a pleasure to go racing every weekend with this team – Joel, Dirk, Valentina, Harri, Quentin and all the people that make the team happen. It really is a super place and I’m excited to continue working with them. A big thank you to all at KTM.”

KTM’s vice president of off-road,Robert Jonas, added: “It’s exciting to be able to say Tom will be one of our MX2 riders for another two years. We are watching a young rider seize the chance he has been given and he has exceeded our expectations even before the halfway point of his first season.

“We believe there is a lot of potential ahead and – as well as the results and success – that is something we like to see. I’d like to thank the team, Joel, Dirk and everybody, for the work and the encouragement and all their experience to help Tom along the way. It proves that again we have a very competitive package and programme at the highest level of motocross.”

The MXGP World Championship resumes on 9 June at Orlyonok in Russia.