Image: Supplied.

Kawasaki and the MX ESCA organization currently operating the Kawasaki Racing Team in the MXGP World Championship will split at the conclusion of the 2021 season.

Following a full 13 years together, the conclusion of the French team’s contract won’t be renewed with Kawasaki into next year.

“I would like to put on record our thanks to Thierry Chizat-Suzzoni, the owner and driving force behind the MX ESCA team,” commented Steve Guttridge, race planning manager for Kawasaki Motors Europe.

“His hard work and commitment over such an extended period have been considerable and both KME and KHI appreciate his highly professional approach and obvious passion for MXGP.

“KME and KHI would additionally also like to offer our gratitude and thanks to all team staff both past and present plus all those riders that have offered so much commitment and contributed so much to this project.

For 2021 there is still a job to do and Kawasaki maintains its commitment to KRT according to our mutually agreed and legally binding contract. Our clear focus remains winning and working alongside the team to achieve the best results possible across the 2021 season.”

It’s unclear what Kawasaki will do with its factory team in 2022 and beyond – no indication given in today’s announcement – and it’s yet to be confirmed where the future of MX ESCA will be next year.