Jorge Prado Exits SMX Playoffs: Kawasaki Confirms Absence Ahead of Championship
In a significant development just ahead of the SuperMotocross World Championship (SMX) Playoffs in North Carolina, Kawasaki has announced that Jorge Prado will not participate in any of the three playoff events. This decision follows a tumultuous relationship since the commencement of the AMA Pro Motocross Championship, where Prado currently ranks 13th in the 450SMX qualifying seeding.
Despite his competitive positioning, Prado’s absence marks a pivotal moment as speculation mounts regarding his future with Monster Energy Kawasaki. Industry insights, including comments from Jason Weigandt, suggest a potential split is imminent, though no official details have been released regarding the reasons for his withdrawal.
Additionally, the factory Kawasaki team will be absent from the playoffs, as Jason Anderson is sidelined for the season with ongoing health issues.
Kawasaki will still have a presence at the Charlotte event, supporting Team Green riders Enzo Temmerman and Vincent Wey in the SMX Next World All-Stars Class.
“Following his first Pro Motocross Championship campaign and placing sixth overall, Jorge Prado and Kawasaki mutually decided that he will not participate in the upcoming SuperMotocross Playoff rounds,” stated the official announcement.
As the motorsports community awaits further developments, the implications of this decision will be closely monitored.
