JONATHAN Rea made an impressive return to World Superbike action with 10th and fourth places at the Nurburgring in Germany yesterday (Sunday).

And, aside from the heavy rain in race two, the Castletown resident may remember the weekend for other reasons as it was announced he will continue riding for the Castrol Honda squad in the championship next year.

Yesterday marked Jonathan's first World Superbike races since he broke his arm and wrist in a warm-up crash at Misano in Italy in June.

The team has made very little impact during Jonathan's period of injury.

He said: "I was really excited to get back on the bike on Friday after three months off but I struggled to get a rhythm in race one and I had some front grip problems and felt a lack of acceleration out of corners.

"In race two it rained right on the start, which was then delayed.

"I crashed out of fourth going into turn one, which was really unfortunate, but luckily I was able to pick the bike up and rejoin in fifth place.

"When Nori Haga crashed out of the lead I got back to fourth so I was happy with the result.

"I'm especially happy for the team and, although it's not a podium or a win, it's something for the guys who haven't had a lot to cheer about recently.

"It's a bit of motivation to take to the next race at least."

The team announced on Saturday the 24-year-old would be staying with it for another year.

He has ridden for the team for four years, the last three of which have been in the superbike class on a Honda Fireblade.

The 2012 season will mark 20 years since the Fireblade's introduction.

Jonathan said: "We started talking quite early this season and it was clear to me that everyone was aware that we were struggling with the bike in some areas.

"After four years with this team, and even more with Honda, it was refreshing and inspiring to see how intent everyone was on addressing the problems.

"These are difficult economic times everywhere, but Honda and the team have increased their commitment and ticked all the boxes for me, so I'm really, really happy.

"There's no championship left to fight for this season, but that won't stop us trying as hard as ever for race wins.

"And the fact that we're not battling for a title means that we can also continue our development work for next year.

"I'd like to thank Honda for the continued support and the team for everything they do for me. Together, we all have unfinished business in the World Superbike championship."

Team manager Ronald ten Kate said: "We are really happy to have Jonathan with us for a fifth year, especially after all his time on Honda machinery.

"We don't need to explain how this year did not bring what we all hoped for, but, for both rider and team, there is a very big ambition for 2012.

"With ongoing and new development on the bike and a new drive within the team, we are totally committed to repaying Jonathan's unwavering loyalty to us and Honda in the best way possible."

Carlo Fiorani of Honda Motor Europe said: "Of course, we are very proud that Jonathan has decided to stay with Honda for the 2012 World Superbike championship.

"He is one of the fastest riders in the paddock and this decision, which is based on a mutually satisfactory relationship, is very important for us and for the championship.

"After a lot of bad luck in 2011, we really want to come back strongly next season and this decision will help us to do that."