Image: Simon Cudby.

It’s been revealed multi-time AMA champion Chad Reed will contest this year’s Monster Energy Cup in Las Vegas on 13 October with the Autotrader Yoshimura Suzuki Factory Racing outfit.

After testing with the JGR-operated squad last month, Reed was granted an opportunity to race the final round of the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, where he lodged a 5-8 scorecard for eighth overall in his first outdoor race since 2015.

In a sign of a strengthening relationship, the 36-year-old has since continued to work with the team in the initial phase of supercross testing, leading to a placement in the squad for the unique October event.

“My experience with the team at the Ironman national was awesome,” Reed reflected. “The race went better than I personally thought it would, because I wasn’t in 100 percent race shape – I achieved my personal goals.

“Since that time, I have continued to work with the team and help test the Suzuki RM-Z450. I’m enjoying the bike and team. I am looking forward to racing the Monster Energy Cup.”

Autotrader Yoshimura Suzuki Factory Racing has confirmed team regulars Weston Peick and Justin Hill will complete its premier class line-up for 2019, although it’s not yet clear if the team will officially field Reed in the Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship despite his significant involvement at this stage.