Image: Supplied.

Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing has extended its contract with Arminas Jasikonis for the 2020 MXGP World Championship, the Lithuanian set to continue alongside Pauls Jonass.

Marking his third full year of competition in the premier MXGP class in 2019, the Husqvarna FC 450 mounted rider has shown great potential, claiming a number of top five race results including a third place finish in the first moto at the GP of Lombardia.

“It means so much to me to be given the opportunity to ride for such a great team,” said Jasikonis. “It feels great to know that the team believes in me and what I can achieve. Admittedly, 2019 has not been the best year for me, a few mistakes have affected my results, but I’m happy with my progress on the bike and I’m keen to deliver the results I know I’m capable of.

“For 2020, remaining with the same team takes a lot of pressure off – we already have a very good set-up for the races and a good atmosphere within the team. I’m really looking forward to continuing to improve and hopefully securing some top results.”

Team manager Antti Pyrhonen added: “Overall, we’re very happy with the progress and consistency Arminas has demonstrated this season. In the races where he has been able to show his real speed and potential, the results have been excellent.

“We have learned a lot this year in terms of both his weaker points and his strengths and we can put in place a strategy to work on these points and challenge for the top three places in the championship next year. Both Arminas and Pauls work very well together – they work hard and are improving all the time. We hope to bring home some good results in the last four rounds of this season and then plan to work hard to prepare for 2020.”

Jasikonis currently sits sixth in the championship standings after finishing 11th at Imola’s 15th round on Sunday.