Image: Simon Cudby.

South Australian Brett Metcalfe has signed with the title-winning Rockstar Energy OTSFF Yamaha team for the 2016 Rockstar Energy MX Nationals Championship in Canada.

Metcalfe, who won the title in 2013, will partner current champion Matt Goerke on the YZ450F, in a deal orchestrated by Rockstar Energy marketing director Mike Kelso and OTSFF’s Andre Laurin.

“For me to return to Canada is a great move for my career,” Metcalfe explained. “It’s been a successful move thus far, looking back at the two seasons I’ve raced there. Signing with Rockstar Energy OTSFF Yamaha is something I’m excited about. It looks like a strong team and I’m looking forward to getting started and keeping the ball rolling.”

OTSFF’s Andre Laurin said: “We’re really excited with the signing of Brett, which was an undertaking of Rockstar Energy and OTSFF. In addition to revamping the team to defend our number one plate in an ever increasing competitive field, there is also the fact that there is global interest for Brett and Rockstar, and obviously for OTSFF, in this venture.”

Rockstar Energy’s marketing director Mike Kelso expressed his enthusiasm about the return of Metcalfe to the Rockstar fold. The California-based Australian previously represented the Rockstar colours in the 2012 AMA Pro Motocross Championship.

“We have been trying for years to get Metcalfe back on a Rockstar program, as he is a world class athlete and a true pleasure to work with,” Kelso commented. “I’m happy to say Brett is back where he belongs.”

The team, which will be focusing its efforts exclusively on the MX1 class next season, is planning to start testing with Metcalfe and Goerke in January. Metcalfe finished third in the standings this season.