Stiggy Honda have sacked former 250GP rider Roby Rolfo to make way for incoming rider John Hopkins but are citing a conflict of sponsorship contracts as the reason.

Rolfo has managed to score just three points from a possible 100 after the first two World Superbike rounds while team-mate Leon Haslam is fifth in the championship on 36.

“With great sadness I have taken notice of the fact that the Stiggy Racing Team and its sponsors have expressed their wishes for another rider to support the team. Based on this outcome, I have decided to end my collaboration with the team," said Rolfo

“I would like to thank my mechanics who have helped me in this short season. I would also like to emphasise the decision, to prevent any miscommunication, has nothing to do with my physical condition, which is perfect at the moment, but is entirely based on reasons beyond my influence."

Team boss Johan Stigefelt added: "We are sorry to announce the premature ending of our collaboration with Roberto Rolfo, due to insolvable matters of sponsor interest.

“We would like to thank Roberto for his dedication and the effort he has put into the Stiggy Racing project from the beginning and sincerely hope he will quickly find the opportunity to participate once again in the SBK Championship. The team intends to maintain the excellent relationship it has built with Roberto Rolfo.”