Jonathan Rea commits to Kawasaki, WorldSBK in ‘multi-year deal’

Jonathan Rea will attempt to continue breaking records in the WorldSBK Championship after confirming he has agreed a new multi-year deal with the Kawasaki Racing Team. 

The Ulsterman made his full season debut with Honda in 2009, but it was his move to Kawasaki in 2015 that has elevated him to become the most successful WorldSBK rider on record.

Becoming the first rider in history to clinch five WorldSBK titles, Rea has now amassed 89 victories in total, with a huge 74 of those coming on the Kawasaki ZX-10RR.

While there was briefly talk of potential interest in a move to MotoGP, or perhaps even retirement, Rea had hinted in recent weeks he has no intention of leaving Kawasaki.

As such, he has signed a multi-year deal – understood to be three years – which should mean he is involved when Kawasaki introduces the next-generation ZX-10RR in 2022/23.

“I am super happy to sign a new contract with Kawasaki and KRT. What we have achieved together is incredible. Our success is driven by a great team and of course the base of the project - our Ninja ZX-10RR. I will keep working hard, together with my crew, the engineers at KHI to be in the best condition every single race. 

“This period away from racing has reignited a burning desire to keep winning and continue to improve my skills and the package of our bike. Racing never stands still and all the riders and manufactures are continuing to improve - we must do the same. 

“Now we can fully focus on our 2020 WorldSBK season where racing will restart soon. I want to thank Kawasaki, the team and all my sponsors for their continued support and this great opportunity.”