Image: Supplied.

Kawasaki Racing Team has confirmed reigning MXGP world champion Romain Febvre will depart at the conclusion of the 2026 season, drawing an end to a successful seven-year collaboration.

Highlighted by clinching the title onboard the factory KX450-SR last year, the 34-year-old Frenchman has been heavily linked to Ducati for 2027. He previously claimed the MXGP championship in 2015 with Yamaha.

“It’s now time in a few months to part ways with Kawasaki after so many seasons in green, and, of course, a lot of memories, a lot of good results, and a lot of achievements together,” Febvre recalled. “A long part of my career will stay forever with Kawasaki, we have been together during seven years, that’s a lot in a rider’s career.

“We reached our ultimate goal, which was the world title last year, after fighting for the title in 2021 and 2023. I always had great people around me since I signed with Kawasaki. We developed a new bike in 2023 and just missed the title for a few points. Unfortunately in 2024 I sustained an injury, but we finally got the title [in 2025].

“This year we fight again for podiums, of course the goal is to win again a GP against strong opponents but we are here and my motivation is always the same, to race for the best! I want to thank everyone who worked with me since day one, the former KRT team of Thierry Chizat Suzzoni and the new KRT team with Antti Pyrhonen, and of course Japan who trusted me and always welcomed me with a positive attitude.

“Next year I will open another chapter of my career, I will enter another challenge, and that’s what I need at my age to perform. But the season is not finished, and until the last race I will of course give my best.”

Kawasaki Racing Team manager Antti Pyrhonen added: “It has been a great privilege to work alongside one of the most successful riders of last decade. A huge commitment from Romain, from Kawasaki and from all the KRT team, which finally culminated in the MXGP world title.

“Romain, Thank you for these years and for your unyielding mentality, memories and achievements which will last forever. Let’s go for it until the end – everything is possible.”

Having won 13 MXGP rounds and 28 motos, Febvre climbed onto the podium for the 55th time during the recent MXGP of Great Britain since joining Kawasaki in 2020. He currently sits third in the 2026 standings, 72 points outside of the red plate with seven rounds remaining.