Having switched it's backing from Honda to Yamaha at the start of the year, Japan Tobacco International is to end its affiliation with the team and depart the MotoGP scene.

Valentino Rossi and Colin Edwards rode the Camel-backed machines during the 2006 season and while both remain with the team for the new campaign, Yamaha will be hunting for a new title sponsor as MotoGP heads into the 800cc era.

“Following Camel's recent announcement, Yamaha Factory Racing would like to express its thanks to Camel and Japan Tobacco International for their partnership and support over the 2006 MotoGP season,” a statement issued by Yamaha read.

“Our thanks go out to all those involved in the project; they have formed an important part of our team over the past year.

“It has been a great honour for Yamaha to work with such an experienced sponsor and Camel's enthusiasm throughout the season has been greatly appreciated by the entire Yamaha Factory Racing Team and the Yamaha Motor Group.”