Michael Laverty's future in MotoGP hangs in the balance

Michael Laverty is awaiting the outcome of discussions between his Paul Bird Motorsport team and the Aprilia factory to determine his future in MotoGP.

The Cumbria-based outfit are seeking support from the Italian manufacturer to allow them to be more competitive in 2014 after a disappointing season.

"I want to continue in MotoGP as I learnt a lot in my first year and want to capitalise on that," said Laverty.

"At the same time, the team don't want to be running at the back of the grid."

"I agreed with Paul a couple of months ago that we would do a second season in MotoGP but the whole project rests on whether Aprilia can supply us with better engines.

"I'm waiting for a decision and hopefully that will come in the next week or so.

"Paul has indicated that he won't leave me stranded though, and if things don't work out with Aprilia he will run me as a third rider in his British Superbike team," added the 32-year-old.

The Toomebridge rider secured just one points finish over the past season, a 13th place at Jerez in May.

Laverty has been testing the 2014 ART package, as well as the PBM bike, at Valencia this week.