Rizla Suzuki GSV-R Loris Capirossi

It was announced today that the Suzuki Motor Corporation and Imperial Tobacco Group have agreed terms to continue their partnership for 2009.

The well-known cigarette papers brand withdrew their sponsorship for the Crescent Racing British Superbike this team raising fears that the MotoGP series would be next but an agreement has been reached for the next season at least.

Paul Denning, Team Manager said,

“This is very positive news for Suzuki to continue our partnership with Rizla in today’s current difficult climate.  We have enjoyed a very close relationship, both on and off the track, with Rizla during the past three years and have certainly considered all the representatives of Rizla as part of the team.

Our on track performance during the first two tests has also been very encouraging and shows how much hard work the factory has put in during the off season.  The GSV-R has certainly come a long way since last year and we know there is still more to come – Chris and Loris were both very impressed with the new bike, but we know there is still a lot of work to do.  The Suzuki team will continue to work hard to keep improving, and we are very positive about our prospects for 2009 in partnership with Rizla.”

The Rizla Suzuki team will be at the next test session at the end of March in Jerez, Spain.  The first race of the season will take place on Sunday 12th April at the Losail circuit, a night event under lights.

Rizla Suzuki

The Crescent Suzuki MotoGP team have still yet to secure a deal for sponsorship for the 2009 season with discussions still on-going with Rizla.

Rizla, after seven successful season in British Superbikes released a statement in October, confirming that they would no longer be sponsoring the factory team.

Paul Denning said when asked if Rizla would be backing the team next year,

“I don’t know yet.  We are in negotiation, it’s not a stalemate, but because it is still under negotiation there is still a chance we may not reach agreement.  I expect to know before the end of this year.”

The team completed a successful completed a three-day test at the end of November at Phillip Island in Australia with the 2009 riders Loris Capirossi and Chris Vermeulen.