The 2023 FIM World Rally Raid Championship is far from over , so it is rather surprising to see Husqvarna announce that American rider , Skyler Howes , and its Factory Rally Team are parting ways . Announced on June 28 , Husqvarna Factory Racing issued a statement that after thorough discussions , Howes and Husqvarna Factory Racing mutually agreed to conclude their partnership with immediate effect . That sees Howes , one of the most consistent riders in the top class , without a ride for the remaining two events in the FIM World Rally Raid Championship in which he currently sits in 6th place . Interestingly , there is currently no word on whether Howes plans to even complete the 2023 season or what , if any , future plans he has . Howes spent two years racing for the Husqvarna Factory Racing Team in both the FIM World Rally-Raid Championship and the prestigious Dakar Rally . Signing with Husqvarna Factory Racing prior