British Moto2 rookie Kyle Smith looks likely to miss the rest of the 2013 season after his personal backers withdrew their funding 'for economic reasons'.

Smith will not be able to complete his rookie term in the series unless he can find a minimum of £100,000 in personal sponsorship to keep the wheels of his Blusens Avintia Kalex turning.

“My sponsor, Wildwolf, pulled out last week and I won’t be able to carry on,” explained the 21 year old who hails from Huddersfield but who makes his racing base in Spain.

“The team need money for me to continue but they want a bit too much to what we have got,” added Smith who points out, “most of the riders in the championship bring money into it from personal funding.

“The sponsor has not pulled out because of my performances, rather for economic reasons and they have said that they might pick up some cash for me to do the final round in Valencia. To finish the season, I need to find at least £100,000,” said Smith, adding philosophically: “it’s a bit of a blow, but what can you do about it?”

Team-mate Toni Elias seemingly will continue, having funding in place.