MotoGP scarlet pimpernel Gabor Talmasci has apparently ditched bike racing altogether and has turned his hand to rallying instead.

The 2007 125cc World Champion will contest the Mecsek Rally in his native Hungary in June as part of the country's domestic rally championship. He began his new career late last season when he finished the Szilveszter Rally in fifth place oout of 140 - not bad for his first effort.

"I reached everything in MotoGP I had wanted. As I taste rallying I feel more motivated. It's one of the most complex technical sports and this is a big challenge for me. This year I try to learn as much as possible," said Talmacsi, who will drive a Ralliart Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX.