V&M Racing and David Jefferies part company.

After three incredibly successful years, the V&M Racing Team have today announced they are parting company with rider David Jefferies.

The Yorkshireman's departure ends what has arguably been the most successful partnership in recent TT history.

In 1999 the privately funded V&M Yamaha team ended Honda's seventeen year domination of the Formula 1 event, when Jefferies took his first TT victory on their 175bhp Yamaha R1. He went on to record six victories in two years and claim the outright circuit lap record, aboard their familiar red and yellow machines.

More victories followed in the North West 200 and Ulster Grand Prix, and the partnership built up a huge following from fans of pure road racing. "I just want everyone to know V&M Racing will still be competing at the TT and in Ireland," said Valentine. "We wish David all the best, but the V&M Yamaha Team thrive on new challenges, and you can be sure the team will still be aiming to win races at this years three premier road race events. Watch this space!"