Joe Shimoda confirmed on Thursday what has been long rumored: He will be leaving the Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki team. In his last race with them, he finished second in the race and took second place in the 1st Supermotocross World Championship.
“LA Coliseum, that was my last race on the pro circuit.” Shimoda said in an emotional post on Instagram.. “While coming back from moto 2, I told Mitch (Payton) I was sorry I couldn’t make it tonight. I really wanted it. He stopped me and said, ‘Joe, I hope you’re with us next year. I know you won’t be in the race, but I’ll always support you wherever you go.” But we’re going to race hard with you. ”
Shimoda was not included in last week’s rider list When the team announced its 2024 lineup.
The partnership between Shimoda City and Pro Circuit Kawasaki dates back to the 2021 season and has resulted in 24 podiums and 5 wins so far.
Since joining, Shimoda has been in the top five in points in all but one series. In 2023, he finished 13th in the 250SX East division due to injury.
Five of his podiums and two of his wins came in the last five races of 2023, including his first Supermotocross race on zMax Dragway.
“It was a really difficult decision for me,” Shimoda continued. “But I want to say thank you to the team. And I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who was behind me. And thank you for making it the most amazing experience ever. had.”
It has not yet been announced whether Shimoda will take the seat vacated by Hunter Lawrence, as he will be competing in the 450 class with Honda HRC next year.
Other contract news
Fredrik Nolen renews contract with Mad Parts Kawasaki
Casey Cochran joins Rockstar Energy Husqvarna
Ken Roczen re-signs with HEP Progressive Ecstar Suzuki
Ryder DiFrancesco joins Troy Lee Designs’ GasGas team
Monster Energy Kawasaki announces lineup
Levi Kitchen leaves Star Yamaha
Joey Savatgy signs with Triumph
Jeremy Martin renews contract with ClubMX
Aaron Plessinger returns to Red Bull KTM
Colt Nichols joins Beta Motorcycles