Repsol Honda’s Dani Pedrosa has confirmed that his long-time crew chief Mike Leitner will not be in the team for the 2015 MotoGP season.

Although the Spaniard did not give any reasons for Leitner’s exit, there is much rumour in the paddock that he is following a couple of mechanics who have been flicked from the squad at Pedrosa’s behest. Leitner has been with Pedrosa since 2004 and may be replaced by Nicky Hayden's former chief Juan Martinez, who is at the track.

“It’s his decision absolutely and he says he wants to change life. We had a very long and good relation. It is a pity but respect,” said Pedrosa, speaking at Phillip Island.