Image: Simon Cudby.

Kawasaki has officially confirmed via a press release this afternoon that Ryan Villopoto will contest the 2015 MXGP World Championship.

As predicted earlier today on MotoOnline.com.au, Villopoto will exit American supercross and motocross in a bid to add a world championship to his resume.

Villopoto, 26, will partner Tyla Rattray in MXGP, while his seat in the US has been filled by Davi Millsaps alongside Wil Hahn next year.

“I am ready for the next chapter in my career and to accomplish new goals,” said Villopoto. “I’ve never been one to look at the record books so when an opportunity like this comes around, to race against the best in the world and represent USA, I have to see it through.

“It will be a major change of pace and this will be the last chapter of my career win or lose. I am extremely excited about the opportunity and also to be joined by a former champion like Tyla. He knows what is needed to succeed on the world championship stage and I know I can learn a lot from him.”

For Kawasaki Motors Europe racing manager Steve Guttridge commented: “Ryan Villopoto is a truly global motocross star; for fans around the world to see him race on their home tracks will indeed be a privilege.

“After such dominance in supercross it is refreshing and characteristically brave to see Ryan take on the world’s best MXGP riders and set his sights on supremacy in this class as well.”

Meanwhile, leading the charge in the US for Kawasaki, the team welcomes two former 250 supercross champions as Davi Millsaps and Wil Hahn make their debut on the KX450F.

“We are extremely anxious to begin the 2015 season,” said Dan Fahie, Monster Energy Kawasaki team manager. “We have big shoes to fill after winning four-straight supercross titles but I could not be more excited to have both Davi and Wil on the team.

“Both riders have proven to be top contenders in the 450 class and they are just as enthusiastic as we are to get back racing and on top of the box.”

Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki will feature a largely new roster in 2015, with Adam Cianciarulo lining up alongside Tyler Bowers, Chris Alldredge, Arnaud Tonus and Joey Savatgy.

Kawasaki also announced today that reigning MX2 World Champion Jordi Tixier will join Dylan Ferrandis and Thomas Covington in its factory MX2 GP effort.