Teenager Davies moves up

Chaz Davies,15, will become one of the youngest competitors in 250cc world championship history after finalising his plans for 2003 by signing with the Aprilia Germany race team.

The step up to 250cc class from 125cc confirms the progress made by the Herefordshire-based rider, who became the youngest grand prix entrant in 2002. Davies raced in the 125cc world championship this year after also becoming the youngest winner of a British Championship race in 2001.

He marked his debut season in Grand Prix by picking up five points from 11th place in the Portugal GP at Estoril despite being handicapped by the under-powered 125cc Matteoni Racing Aprilia.

Davies, who has not ridden a 250cc machine before, said: "I'm delighted to be riding with an experienced team."

Aprilia Germany have experienced success with a Briton before – Jeremy McWilliams won the 250cc Dutch GP at Assen in 2001.