Parkes cut by Kawasaki
Added on Tuesday, October 20th, 2009 by Carole Nash Editor
Parkes cut by Kawasaki
Kawasaki are expected to confirm their rider line-up for the 2010 World Superbike Championship but Broc Parkes has confirmed that he is not part of the team’s plans for next season.
Kawasaki, who have already signed up Suzuki MotoGP ride Chris Vermeulen for 2010, are expected to officially confirm their complete rider line-up on Wednesday although current rider Parkes has confirmed that he will not be pairing up with his fellow Aussie next season.
Speaking ahead of this weekend’s final round in Portimao, Parkes revealed that he had not been offered a contract for 2010 and that he would not be looking to impress any prospective new employer in Portugal this weekend.
“I’m going into this weekend under mixed emotions as it’s been a tough year filled with many ups and downs,” said Parkes. “I can honestly say looking back that I’ve enjoyed the challenge of the ZX-10R and really appreciated working with the Paul Bird Motorsport and Kawasaki Racing teams.
“The team and I have worked really hard so it would be nice to do well this weekend and end the season on a high. I’m obviously very disappointed that I will not be continuing into 2010 with Kawasaki but that is the way racing goes.
“I wish the team all the best for the future and want to thank them for the opportunity in 2009. Portimao should provide a good race for all and I enjoyed racing there last year so I’ve got nothing to lose but to do well.”
It’s believed that Brit Tom Sykes is the front runner for the second Kawasaki seat, having been dropped by Yamaha.
