Honda may quit WSB in 2003

There are persistent rumours in the World Superbike paddock that suggest Castrol Honda will either scale down, or even pull, their factory squad next season.

The team is currently funded by Honda Europe as opposed to the Grand Prix arm of Honda Racing Corporation which relies on Honda Japan. The feeling is that Honda Europe are looking at cost-cutting, and with a factory effort costing almost £3.5million pounds each season, it’s an obvious way to save money.

Colin Edwards has already admitted talking with Ducati, and Honda may limit their efforts with one or two less well-known riders filling the Texan’s boots, or they may decide the expense is too much, leaving World Superbikes increasingly empty of Japanese factory teams.

Don’t miss: Colin Edwards reveals his WSB plans for 2003 in an exclusive interview with MCN, out August 21.