Image: Alex Gobert (Foremost Media).

MEGA Bulk Fuels Monster Energy Kawasaki has confirmed it’s released Russian Aleksandr Tonkov from his contract at the halfway point of the 2017 Motul MX Nationals following frustrating opening five rounds.

Limited preparation had the 23-year-old enter the series on the back-foot, however despite displaying the speed to make Super Pole at Conondale, he currently sits eighth in the championship standings.

“This is not an ideal situation, however we are remaining focused and we are in good spirits coming into the second half of the motocross season,” said team manager Troy Carroll. “We will continue to compete in the 2017 MX Nationals with the most promising rookie in the field, Nathan Crawford and we will hopefully be announcing a replacement rider for Tonkov shortly.”

Tonkov’s departure from MEGA Bulk Fuels Monster Energy Kawasaki opens a prized seat in the premier MX1 category for the remainder of the outdoor season at least, with high profile riders such as Brett Metcalfe, Jay Wilson on the market following a turbulent number of weeks in the sport locally.