Kawasaki Close To Motogp Pull-out

Japanese manufacturer Kawasaki has reportedly become the latest brand to withdraw from motorsport, pulling out of this year’s MotoGP championship.

According to media speculation the reason for the pull-out was unclear, although the economic climate and poor form are the likely factors. Since returning to the top class in 2003 the team has failed to win a race.

The Japanese manufacturers have yet to confirm the news but, with no vacancies on the 2009 grid, Kawasaki riders Marco Melandri and John Hopkins will both be left without a place.

The global financial situation has hit motorsport and Japanese teams particularly hard this close season, with Honda pulling out of F1 and Suzuki and Subaru withdrawing from the World Rallying championship.