Image: SImon Makker.

Suzuki Australia has moved to dismiss speculation that it will cease operation of its factory motocross and supercross team ahead of the 2014 season.

Last year saw Suzuki claim both titles with Motul Pirelli Suzuki rider Matt Moss aboard the ever-popular RM-Z450, as well as the Australian Superbike Championship with Team Suzuki’s Wayne Maxwell in a trophy year for the brand.

Budget restraints have since forced the closure of the Team Suzuki superbike program for at least this year however, and rumours have been rampant over the past week that the Jay Foreman-managed motocross team will be next to exit racing.

The rumours are incorrect according to Suzuki Australia marketing manager Lewis Croft, who dispelled the claims when contacted by MotoOnline.com.au late Tuesday afternoon.

“We have sponsors on board, two championships to defend and the off-road arena is buoyant – it’s hugely competitive,” Croft explained. “We’ve acquired additional new sponsors, the profile’s been risen and racing demonstrates that the RM-Z450 is at an exceptionally high level.”

Currently in the US contesting the opening West Coast rounds of Monster Energy Supercross, Suzuki has agreed to terms with Moss to return and could potentially sign a second rider before the MX Nationals commence to replace Honda-bound Cody Cooper.

“We have one rider [Moss] and we are looking for a rookie in the wings that could learn from Matt,” Croft added. “A decision is yet to be made regarding the second rider.”

Suzuki Australia currently has a Moss Replica Motul Pirelli Suzuki RM-Z450 available to order through its dealer network in celebration of the factory team’s success in 2013 (click here for further information).

Click here for complete details on Suzuki’s decision to step back from its Australian Superbike Championship commitments – that series promoted by Australian Supercross promoter International Entertainment Group.