Ilmor disband MotoGP team

Ilmor have disbanded their MotoGP team in order to devote their energies to developing their engine. The team have had a disappointing 2007, being forced to suspend their racing activities after the season's first race. Team boss Mario Illien said he hoped they would return in 2007, and have kept riders Andrew Pitt and Jeremy McWilliams contracted. However, many other team members will be released from their contracts at the end of May.

"It is senseless to employ an entire race team when our track activity has ceased, albeit on a temporary basis," said Illien.

"I remain upbeat and I still strongly believe that we will find a financial partner for the team. In the meantime we have to restructure and put in place a smaller team dedicated to engine development."