Despite recent negotiations, Jonathan Rea has been rejected by the Barni Spark Racing Team for the 2026 season.
One of the biggest dominoes yet to fall into place for the 2026 World Superbike rider lineup is the six-time World Superbike Champion, Jonathan Rea.
It has become clear that the Northern Irishman has no future in the factory Yamaha World Superbike team after two unsuccessful years with the Japanese manufacturer.
However, the 38-year-old has not been swarmed by teams offering him a ride for the 2026 season, with him having to go to manufacturers and teams instead.
In recent weeks, it had been reported that Rea was in talks with the Barni Spark Racing Team, and the ride would be given to either him or Iker Lecuona.
Now that Lecuona has reportedly been offered a one-year deal by the Aruba.it Racing - Ducati team, the ride should have been Rea's for the taking.
But Rea has recently confirmed to Speedweek.com that negotiations with the Barni Spark Racing Team have failed.
The German media outlet has also revealed that Rea has been rejected by the factory Ducati and Honda World Superbike teams and is not high on BMW's list as a potential second rider.
With his options running out, Rea only has one option with Ducati for 2026, which is with the GoEleven Team. However, the Italian team is asking for a large sum of money for their Andrea Iannone replacement.
