Image: Supplied.

Reigning MXGP world champion Antonio Cairoli has extended his contract with KTM Factory Racing, set to continue his career through the 2020 season.

The Italian won KTM’s first-ever premier class title in 2010 aboard a 350 SX-F and claimed the brand’s first 450 SX-F crown last year, etching himself in history with Red Bull KTM.

“I’m really happy to announce this because we already made history in 2010 with the KTM 350 SX-F against the 450s and succeeded with that challenge,” Cairoli said. “I feel a part of KTM because of that success and since then the company has grown a lot. I put in a lot of effort to bring titles and I feel very proud to be part of the company.

“They invest a lot and do a lot of work in development and you see the result because it is the top off-road manufacturer in the world. I’m happy to continue and to do another two years and to try for more titles. I’m fully motivated for the upcoming seasons.”

The 2018 season begins this weekend with the first round of 19 taking place at Neuquen in Argentina. It will mark Cairoli’s 15th term as a full-time grand prix rider and his ninth in Red Bull KTM colours. In a remarkable career that boasts nine titles, he will vie for number 10 this year.