British superbike champion OMG Race has withdrawn from the 2025 season due to unexpected commercial reasons.
The news comes as a major blow just days before the pre-season tests begin in Navarara, Spain, and begin with the open round on May 3-5.
“Unfortunately, this is not April Fool’s Day,” read Alan Gardner’s statement from OMG Racing.
“We are extremely saddened to announce that OMG Race will no longer compete in the 2025 Bennetts British Superbike Championship due to significant commercial circumstances beyond our control.”
Gardner added: “Alongside MSVR, we are actively pursuing alternative routes for 2024 rider champion Kyle Ryde, 2022 rider champion Bradley Ray and Joe Talbot.”
BSB promoters MSVR and Yamaha Motor UK also issued a statement in response.
MSVR described the news as “shocking and saddening,” but reassured fans that efforts are being made to find alternative seats for Ryde, Ray and Talbot.
“As promoters, we are shocked and saddened by the news. Naturally, this is devastating for the team and staff near the start of the season,” read MSVR’s statement.
“However, when it comes to riders, MSVR is actively pursuing alternative routes to participate this season.
“The Bennetts British Superbike Championship recognizes OMG Racing’s achievements since it first joined the series in 2018 and celebrates its title victory in 2022 and 2024.”
Yamaha, whose partnership with OMG has produced two BSB titles, also expressed his gratitude for the team’s contributions.
“OMG Race today confirmed that it will immediately withdraw from the championship for unexpected commercial reasons,” Yamaha Motor UK said.
“Yamaha Motor UK would like to thank Alan Gardner and the OMG team for their efforts and efforts to represent Yamaha to a high standard in the 2024 season, as well as the previous two seasons.
“In BSB’s time with Yamaha, OMG Race achieved championship victory with Bradley Ray and Kyle Ryde in 2024, including taking Yamaha to a championship victory in 2022.”
Yamaha confirmed they are “conversing with MSVR about options and locations regarding the 2025 season.”