Jaume Masia needed only one race to find a place in the world championship. The Spaniard replaced injured Darryn Binder in Austria, managing to fight with the best in the race and even set the fastest lap, all on his debut appearance.

The Platinum Bay Real Estate team led by Fiorenzo Caponera wasted no time and has signed a two year contract with Masia for the 2018 and 2019 seasons. Jaime will take Binder's place on the team, racing with a KTM.

"The story of Jaume’s hiring is really a fairy tale with a happy ending like those that our grandparents told us about so many years ago - said team manager Caponera - The young rider debuted at the Austrian circuit replacing the injured Darryn Binder. From the beginning, the feeling between team and rider has been incredible, we were impressed by his determination and maturity, and his freshness and unquestionable talent have won over the team and title sponsor. After the race, we looked at each other and said to ourselves, this rider must be ours, we can and we want to grow him and see him debut in the MotoGP World Championship! Jaume had the same feeling about us. It has been a mutual, fantastic “love at first sight”, and today we are really happy to announce that Jaume will be part of our program for at least two years."

Masia commented: “I am very happy to join Platinum Bay for the next two years and grateful for their trust in me. It will give me the confidence and tranquility to focus, during year one, on adapting to the championship with the goal of being prepared and ready to fight at the front during year two. I felt so good with the team in my first race in Austria that I considered Platinum to be the best option to jump to the world championship. Finally, I want to thank Cuna de Campeones for giving me the opportunity to ride this year in FIM CEV, it has meant a lot to me, without their support it would not have been possible.”