After holidaying and training in the United States over the Christmas period, he has looked at his options and although efforts were made to find him a ride in MotoGP, his career in the championship series sadly seems to be over.

Max revealed in his statement that a book is to be published shortly which will contain his version of recent events and set the record straight.

According to Max, an official statement will be issued later in the week with details of his future racing career, although a move to WSBK has not been totally ruled out.

WSBK is gaining a quite a few top riders from MotoGP this year, so far Robbi Rolfo, Alex Barros, Ruben Xaus and Troy Bayliss have moved across to the Superbike Championship. Carlos Checa is also considering his career after the withdrawal of Sito Pons team from MotoGP, I wonder if he is looking to jump ship and go to WSBK as well?

Should be a great season for the WSBK series with so many top riders from MotoGP moving over and should pull in a few more fans following their favourite Riders.

Yamaha have also issued a press release confirming Camel as the latest sponsor for their factory team.

The first race for the WSBK championship takes place in Qatar on Feb 23 - 25th.