World Superbike champion Jonathan Rea commits to new 'multi-year' deal with Kawasaki

Rea won his first title after joining Kawasaki for 2015 and went on to retain the world crown in five successive years, becoming the most successful World Superbike rider ever.

News of the deal ends speculation over his future as the 32-year-old Northern Ireland star commits to KRT.

Rea said: “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.”

In May, Briton Alex Lowes - who joined Rea at Kawasaki for 2020 - signed an extension to his contract for the 2021 season.

Lowes currently leads the World Championship after one round at Phillip Island in Australia, with Rea 19 points behind in fourth place.

The season was curtailed by the coronavirus pandemic but is set to recommence at the beginning of August.