Last week, Aprilia announced that it will be returning to MotoGP as a works team next season, with Gresini running its bikes on an initial four-year deal.

Bautista, who has signed for two years, claimed the 2006 125cc title and finished runner-up in the 2008 250cc championship with Aprilia on his way to the premier class, his MotoGP debut ultimately arriving in 2010.

The Spaniard, 29, has since claimed three podiums and a pole position on Suzuki and Honda machinery.

"I am very happy to have signed an agreement with Aprilia for the next two MotoGP seasons," said Bautista.

"Working in close contact with a manufacturer is what I wanted for my future and Aprilia has offered me a great chance. I am also very motivated to embark on this new adventure because I am coming back to a brand that has brought me great satisfaction in the past and with which I have shared some great times.

"Above all, the cooperation between Aprilia Racing and Gresini Racing will allow me to stay with a team that I've been racing with already for three years and which has become like a family to me.

"I have worked directly for a manufacturer in the past and I really liked developing a new project together. Knowing that I'll be able to count on the support of so many engineers and technicians is exciting."

"I am happy to be able to continue working with Bautista," added eponymous Team Manager Fausto Gresini.

"Álvaro has significant experience in MotoGP so his contribution will certainly be essential in developing the new projects with Aprilia in the best possible way. I believe very much in him and his potential and I am confident that he will be able to bring us the results we are expecting."