Former MotoGP rider John Hopkins has confirmed that he will join Crescent Suzuki for the upcoming World Superbike Championship 2012 season.

Hopkins is already a member of the Jack Valentine-helmed squad having disputed in 2011 the MCE British Superbike Championship; falling only two points short of the title win.

The American had been linked to Rizla Suzuki and LCR Honda for a possible return to MotoGP in 2012 but with Suzuki announcing its withdrawal from the series and LCR Honda opting to sign Moto2 champion Stefan Bradl, Hopkins will instead remain with Crescent for its foray into the World Superbike Championship.

Hopkins will be paired with former BSB champion Leon Camier in the team, which will assume privateer Suzuki status in 2012 following the confirmation that the manufacturer will not be involved in a factory capacity with either Crescent or long-term partners Alstare.

On his part, Alstare team owner Francis Batta has announced that his team will not continue in the World Superbike Championship next season.