Kawasaki’s Jonathan Rea is looking to extend his deal with Kawasaki for a further two seasons but thinks that with lots of rider contracts in both MotoGP and WorldSBK coming to and end next year, the 2018 silly season should be fun.

Rea believes his chance for a factory ride in MotoGP has come and gone, and always says he is happy with a race-winning package in WorldSBK and all the benefits that come with it.”

“I have one more year with Kawasaki and while I don't want to race too long, I think that another two year contract would be perfect. I'm riding better than I ever have, and I think that experience counts for an awful lot in racing,” said Rea, speaking at Silverstone.

“The best situation for me would be to stay with Kawasaki and build a future with them. For me though I'm not thinking too far ahead because I'm lucky to have my contract sorted for next year. Although I'm sure that in the middle of next year my manager will be having a fun time in the paddock.

“A lot of the MotoGP grid teams open for contracts at the end of next year, and it's the same in WorldSBK. All the official teams are open at the end of 2018 so it'll be a fun silly season for everyone!

“To come here and compare myself to GP riders, I'd need the right equipment and I wouldn't come here just to be here. I really enjoy the WorldSBK paddock and riding our bikes, and I love working with Kawasaki and right now that's where my opportunity is.

“However I also think that I'm now too old to come to MotoGP and that I've missed the boat. I'm lucky to have had two races in 2012 on the Honda when I replaced Casey. It was very difficult for me because I was racing WorldSBK one week and Grand Prix the next but it was enjoyable,  I got to ride one of the best bikes and score some points.”