Jacque announces retirement from racing

The Kawasaki rider has struggled to recover from his injuries when he has tried to return to the bike, and he will now become a development rider and technical advisor for Kawasaki.

"From the beginning of this MotoGP season I crashed on several occasions, often with severe injuries to my back, cervical vertebrae and right forearm," said the Frenchman.

"Right now I feel tired and physically diminished. I find it very hard to recover from my injuries and don't feel competitive enough to ride at top level. I've invested myself a lot in this sport, but my body keeps telling me it's maybe time to move on."

Jacque admitted that he did not want to completely detach himself from MotoGP, so he was happy that the team will retain him in a new role.

"Obviously, this was a difficult decision to take, but Kawasaki have been understanding and we have reached agreements for the future which will allow me to stay involved in the racing world," he said.

"It's an important stage in my life, a new start, but I will stay involved in motorcycle racing since Kawasaki have renewed their trust in me as development rider and technical advisor.

"I am truly satisfied with this compromise, to keep working with people I appreciate and respect. I hope my implication will allow Kawasaki to make further progress because the team's potential has recently and clearly been shown."

Australian rider Anthony West had already been confirmed as a replacement for Jacque for the remainder of this season.