Kristian Whatley splits with MVR-D Husqvarna
By Sean Lawless on 11th Jan 17
Arenacross Tour Kristian Whatley
Kristian Whatley has spilt with his MVR-D Husqvarna team without turning a wheel in competition.
The former British champion was a no-show at the opening round of the 2017 UK Arenacross Tour at Manchester Arena on Saturday. As speculation grew the MVR-D Husqvarna team released the following brief statement on Monday night.
‘It is with regret that MVR-D Husqvarna has split with rider Kristian Whatley. The team and rider had differences of opinions that could not be overcome and decided that it was better to go their separate ways.
‘The team would like to thank all of its sponsors for their understanding and continued support.
‘A further team announcement will be issued soon.'
TMX contacted team boss Mark Chamberlain who refused to comment, saying he'd agreed with Whatley not to discuss the matter further. Whatley was also staying silent about the split but did talk freely about his immediate plans.
"I don't really know what to say to be fair,” he said on Tuesday morning. "I'm in a bit of a predicament. I'm not really sure what's happening at the moment. I've got a meeting later today with David Edwards from Husqvarna and we'll see where we go from there.”
The 27-year-old had a difficult 2016 with personal problems forcing him to take a step back from racing during the second half of the season. After signing with his new team the early signs were positive so the split has shocked many in the industry.
"Obviously I'd like to stay with Husqvarna. It's a really good bike and I feel really good on it at the moment – everything seems to be knitting together apart from what I'm doing team wise. After such a bad second half of last year I can't afford to have another bad year.
"After my conversation with David I think I'll know a bit more. I don't think Husqvarna really want to lose me so hopefully there will be something sorted out, whether it's going to be transferring team or on my own.”
If Whatley is transferred to an existing team it will be either Geartec Husqvarna, Apico Husqvarna or the currently MX2-only REVO Husqvarna. Then there's the option of setting up on his own.
"If I can get the support I'd definitely run my own team,” adds Whatley. "In the long run it would be hard but I'd be happy to turn up in my Sprinter that Truck Links has given me with an ez-up.
"Everyone knows I can still do it and at the moment I've got so much motivation to show everyone that I've put my problems last season behind me. I can't wait for the season to start.”
Former British SX champion Neville Bradshaw will take Whatley's vacated MVR-D Husqvarna ride for the remainder of the AX series.
