Husqvarna Motorcycles has made the surprising announcement that Tyla Rattray has mutually exited the factory Red Bull IceOne Racing MXGP World Championship team.

Returning to the FIM Motocross World Championship for 2014, both Husqvarna and Rattray were keen to see the former MX2 World Champion deliver solid results in what was the manufacturer’s return to MXGP competition. But despite a positive and productive winter of testing, Rattray struggled to realise his true potential due to ongoing injuries.

According to Husqvarna, in order for him to return to a full bill of health it has been decided to offer Rattray an early termination to his racing commitments. By missing the final two rounds of the season in Brazil and Mexico, Rattray can concentrate on his recuperation in the US.

“It’s unfortunate to end a working relationship with a rider early but sometimes that’s how it goes,” team manager Antti Pyrhonen said. “Motocross is a tough sport and this year Tyla has received more than his fair share of bad luck. Parting company at this stage in the season has been a difficult decision to make but we do not want to see a rider struggle on injured.

“Hopefully this step away from racing will allow him to return to a full bill of health. On behalf of everyone at Red Bull IceOne Husqvarna Factory Racing I’d like to thank Tyla for his efforts in 2014 and wish him very bit of success in the future.”

Despite a difficult season for the South African, Husqvarna Motorcycles and Red Bull IceOne Husqvarna Factory Racing have thanked Rattray for his professionalism and 100per cent commitment to the brand.

Rattray had been partnered with Australian Todd Waters during the 2014 season, more recently racing alongside Dean Ferris while Waters recovers from injuries sustained mid-season.