Source: Supplied.

Kawasaki’s official 2018 rider line-ups at the Monster Energy Kawasaki and Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki teams have been confirmed ahead of the 2018 American racing season.

Previously confirmed to remain with the manufacturer in a multi-year contract extension, Eli Tomac will head the Monster Energy Kawasaki program in the premier class as he returns in 2018 as a strong favourite in both the supercross and motocross divisions.

Riding alongside the reigning Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship winner at Monster Energy Kawasaki will be veteran Josh Grant, a former in the 450cc category and 2017 factory Kawasaki team rider.

Monster Energy Kawasaki senior manager Dan Fahie looks forward to entering the 2018 season with their unchanged rider roster expecting continued success with both Tomac and Grant at the controls of the Kawasaki KX450F.

“Looking into 2018, we have a great team on and off the track,” said Fahie. “All of our riders have won races and I believe this year will be no different. I’m looking forward to the new season and the success that lies ahead.”

Both Tomac and Grant will next hit the track at the 2017 Monster Energy Cup in Las Vegas as Tomac looks to defend his crown after claiming victory at the 2016 running of the unique annual event.

Returning to the Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki rider roster for 2018 will be Adam Cianciarulo, Joey Savatgy and Austin Forkner as 2017 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship West Region champion Justin Hill exits the squad.

Replacing Hill and making a return to the Mitch Payton-managed squad will be 250cc category veteran Martin Davalos who last rode under the Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki awning in 2014 where he claimed two main event supercross victories.

Now sporting 30 AMA championship number one plates on the door of their race transporter, Payton again brings high expectations into the 2018 season with his revised rider line-up.

“We have a great team for the 2018 season,” said Payton. “I am looking forward to watching our riders and helping them reach their full potential. I have high expectations for them and know they will all do well each weekend.”

The official start of the 2018 American racing season will take place at Anaheim’s Angel Stadium in California on 5 January for the opening round of the 2018 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship.