Image: Supplied.

Monster Energy Knich Yamaha’s Davi Millsaps has announced his retirement from professional supercross and motocross, effective immediately after sustaining a major concussion in the pre-season.

Millsaps, 29, was due to complete his final season aboard the factory YZ450F this season, however his career has been cut short after his neurologist declined clearance to return to the bike.

“After being injured while testing last fall, I had hoped to return to racing this year,” Millsaps said. “But after consulting with my doctors and talking things over with my family, I have made the difficult decision to retire from racing. As it was, I had already planned to retire at the end of the year, but unfortunately, I had a big crash, which changed my plans.

“I definitely wanted to go out on my own terms, but my neurologist wouldn’t clear me to ride, so I was essentially forced to call it quits after 27 years of racing. I’m officially retiring today, but I’ll still be around the sport I love.”

Millsaps is scheduled to do a lap of honour at the Atlanta round of Monster Energy AMA Supercross on 3 March: “Atlanta is where I won my very first 450SX main event and I’m the only Georgian to ever win a 450SX race in Georgia, so it’s fitting for me to conclude my racing career in Atlanta. Also, my family and friends will be able to be there to see me do my lap. It’s definitely going to be emotional, but it’s the right thing for me to do.”

A two-time 450SX championship runner-up in 2012 and 2013, Millsaps tallied five wins and 35 podiums in the premier class during his career. He was also the 2006 250SX East champion, 2014 Monster Energy Cup winner and 2016 Canadian motocross champion.