Haslam released by Alstare Suzuki
Added on Tuesday, September 28th, 2010 by Carole Nash Editor
Haslam released by Alstare Suzuki
Leon Haslam has been released by Alstare Suzuki after doubts continue to surface over the team’s future in the World Superbike championship.
Haslam, who missed out on the championship to Max Biaggi at the weekend, has been released half-way through a two year contract with the Alstare Suzuki team, with speculation suggesting that the team may lose support from the Suzuki factory at the end of the season.
A team statement confirmed: “Leon Haslam has been released from the two-year contract with Team Alstare.
“For the past six weeks, Team Alstare has been waiting for an answer from its principal partner regarding the situation for the future of the team.
“Last week, after Francis Batta’s visit to Japan, we were assured that an answer would be given before the race in Imola. Team Alstare received no news.
“Such a lack of interest and an unclear situation from our main partner forces Team Alstare to let Leon decide his own future.
“It is therefore in total agreement between the parties that Leon was authorised to deal with another manufacturer in order for him not to lose an opportunity to further his future career.
“We wish Leon all the best for the season 2011. We are disappointed to lose such a talented rider in whom we had put all of our hopes. Obviously our main partner did not share our opinion.”
Haslam’s representatives have confirmed that the rider has had offers from other manufacturers over a ride for next season, with strong speculation linking him to the vacant seat at BMW. Hanspree Ten Kate Honda also have a vacant seat, with Max Neukirchner’s future still in the balance.
