Supersonic to retire at end of season
Team owner Danilo Soncini declared: "I'm really sorry to announce our withdrawal. To compete in SBK was my desire, my famous "dream" and passion. A motorcyclist since I was a child, I was pushing until the day to reach this highest level. I can say that I reached one of the goals of my life.
"I gave a chance to two young guys with a similar dream, Luca and Maxime. They have been with us, stir up the crowds, attracting fans. Some important doors went open for them, also thanks to our efforts and I am very proud of this. I really had a chance to enjoy the true essence of sport, before business and all the other things.
"The motivation of our withdrawal is not to be found in this time of crisis, since we are facing a large investment in the world from 2010 with a deep crisis, then continuing another difficult year in 2011. We would probably have continued in 2012 when we saw the more economic regulations, but new personal challenges are waiting for me. I will not have time anymore for the joy of following my team, and sure, I made this decision with deep regret. I didn't see our team as "job" or "work" but as a moment of a true passion, so it doesn't make sense to stay only for business or for money.
"So, it is time now to close this chapter, leaving a pleasant memory behind. To try to stay in this wonderful sport, I will start again to sponsor some riders or teams, likes some years ago in MotoGP. I would like to thank first of all, my team, my riders, and all the fans, the sponsors, Infront and my family who has sacrificed all the needed time in supporting my passion. Ciao and thanks again to everyone."
