Five-time World Supersport champion Kenan Sofuoglu will retire after this weekend’s race at Imola.

The Turkish rider today announced he will race for the final time at the San Marino track, before ending his racing career for good.

With a career which has produced 43 race wins, 85 podiums and five titles, Sofuoglu has finally confirmed that this weekend will be his last, as he takes to the track for the final time to mark his 20 year anniversary in the sport.

“I am going to retire from racing this weekend, and I will celebrate my 20 years of racing anniversary this weekend,” said the Puccetti Racing rider.

“In the last couple of months I had a few injures which made my family very afraid, as well as our President. I have decided to retire from racing earlier than I originally thought, but I can’t say I am sad because I have already coached and trained a few Turkish riders who will carry the flag for me.

“I started my racing career 20 years ago, with a goal to race in the world championships, and I have won the world title five times; I am very thankful for that.

“Many people supported me while winning these titles and I want to thank everyone for that. For Kawasaki Puccetti Racing Team and for my fans, I will be on track one last time in Italy”.

The announcement follows a couple of seasons plagued by injury, which came to a head following a crash at Phillip Island this year that is still affecting his fitness.

The team has yet to reveal his replacement.