Taree’s Damian Cudlin will spearhead Phase One Yamaha’s assault on the 2009 World Endurance Championship after signing for the triple World Champions for another season. With a relationship that has spanned over 6 years, Cudlin, who will become the longest serving Phase One rider by the end of the season, says he feels like part of the family in the British squad and is excited about his 2009 prospects. “I’m really pleased to have signed with Phase One again and to front their attack on the 2009 title” said the young Aussie. “Russell and I have a lot of history together and a lot of respect for each other. I first rode for Phase One in 2002 as an 18 year old, and have experienced some great times with them over the years. He’s worked really hard to put the things in place we need to challenge for the title, and with the demise of SERT, the championship is wide open.” French Endurance ace Sebastian Scarnato will support Cudlin in his 2009 campaign, a combination that proved powerful when the pair were teamed at YART in 2007 on their way to 3rd in the championship standings. “Sebastian was the guy I needed at Phase One. His endurance experience is invaluable and we work very well together. Endurance is a team sport and this year we have the team that can win” Cudlin added. The big news however is the final addition to the Phase One rider line up in 2009. Sharing more than just title aspirations, Damian’s new team mate will be younger brother, Alex Cudlin who will make his Phase One debut in Le Mans. “To be riding for Phase One Yamaha is one of the most exciting things to have happened to me” smiled Cudlin Junior as he is now happily being referred to. “This team has won 3 World Championships and have always had a very strong presence in the Championship, so to be part of the team in 2009 is a real honor. I must thank Damian for making this happen. He was the one to bring Phase One and me together” Cudlin Senior was also excited to be lining up alongside his brother and hopes that the ‘Cudlin Combo’ can become a force to reckoned with. “Alex has grown into a very strong Endurance racer and I think he’s ready for the next step in his career” Damian explained. “This is his chance to show what he’s capable of and I know he’ll step up to the plate. He’s fit and determined and wants to win as much as I do. He’s a chip of the old block” Cudlin smiled. The team will begin testing in Spain on the new ‘Big Bang’ Yamaha R1 in March, gearing up for the first round of the World Championship at Le Mans in April.