"The last three seasons have proven to be a real turning point for my company: together with our title sponsor Konica Minolta we have shared some very profitable activities and I would like to say I am proud to have created the Konica Minolta Honda Team," said Montiron.

"For different reasons the 2007 sporting results have been below expectations - and I take full responsibility - the commitment of a prestigious company such as Konica Minolta in the MotoGP World Championship has served to improve the stature of both championship and sponsor.

"We look to the future with hope of success for both of us in our new projects," he added.

Makoto Tamada took Konica Minolta's only MotoGP podium during 2005, while fellow Japanese Shinya Nakano claimed a best finish of tenth as the team's sole rider this season.

JiR is expected to merge with 250GP outfit Team Scot and run its star rider Andrea Dovizioso in MotoGP next season. JiR will confirm its 2008 plans on Monday.