MotoGP bosses have this lunchtime issued a statement regarding Suzuki’s imminent departure from the series.

Although not yet officially confirmed, the Suzuki squad was informed yesterday that there would be no team in 2023 even though there is a deal in place until 2026 with rights holders Dorna.

The statement reads:

Following recent rumours of Suzuki departing MotoGP at the end of 2022, Dorna Sports has officially contacted the factory in order to remind them that the conditions of their contract to race in MotoGP do not allow for them to take this decision unilaterally.

However, should Suzuki depart following an agreement between both parties, Dorna will decide on the ideal number of riders and teams racing in the MotoGP class from 2023.

Dorna continues to receive high levels of interest from a number of both official factories and Independent Teams looking to join the MotoGP grid as the sport continues to set a global example of close competition, innovation and entertainment, reaching hundreds of millions of fans around the world.

Interest from these parties has been re-confirmed in the past 24 hours.