Image: Octopi Media.

Shane McElrath has bid farewell to the Smartop Bullfrog Spas MotoConcepts Honda team after his rookie 450SX term included only three rounds in 2021 Monster Energy Supercross.

McElrath missed much of the opening half of this season after separating his shoulder, only to return in Orlando and then be sidelined soon afterwards with back problems leading into the Arlington residency.

With MotoConcepts rumored to be departing Supercross from next year, it’s unclear what’s next for McElrath in his career. The 26-year-old’s best result this year was 14th position in the Orlando 2 main event.

“I want to say a big thank you to the Smartop Bullfrog Spas MotoConcepts Honda team, Mike Genova and Tony Alessi on giving me an opportunity as a rookie in the 450 class,” McElrath stated. “Also got to work with a great mechanic, Aaron Mrozek. I only got to line up for three races after dealing with two different injuries, which is pretty disappointing for myself and the team.

“Mike and Tony continued to give me the very best opportunity regardless of what we were facing and I’m thankful to have gotten to know them both and learn so much from them! Thanks to all the other team supporters because you guys make it all worth it – until next time guys.”

McElrath had been recognized as one of the leading riders in the 250 class for a number of years prior to graduating this year, claiming runner-up in 250SX East last year, as well as second in 250SX West in 2015 and 2017. He was third in points during 2018.