BRADLEY Smith admits he could retire from competitive MotoGP action if he does not secure a premier-class ride next season.

The 27-year-old, who hails from Forest Hill, near Oxford, has lost his place on a Red Bull KTM factory bike for 2019.

Smith has spent the last six seasons in MotoGP, having climbed through the ranks.

It had been muted one potential avenue to explore for next year would be with his former Tech 3 team, who have linked up with KTM.

But the French outfit have already announced one new rider, and are expected to retain Hafizh Syahrin.

And that leaves Smith with a big problem.

“At the end of the day, I want to be here inside of MotoGP,” Smith said at this weekend’s Italian Grand Prix, where he secured a third successive points-scoring finish in 14th.

“I’ve had a fortunate career where I’ve been able to ride the best motorcycles in the world against the best riders in the world.

“And if one of those bikes inside this championship wasn’t available, then I’m happy to close the chapter on this racing world and step away.”

He added: “I’m happy. I’ve had a good run at this. I’ve enjoyed every part of what I’ve done.

“I have the chance to ride the best tyres, work with the best people, (the best) manufacturers, as I’ve done with Aprilia, Tech 3, Yamaha and KTM.

“That’s what makes me motivated.

“Of course, (getting) results is fun, but the thing that gets you up in the morning is knowing that you’re in this top one per cent and you have to remain there.

“If that was no longer my situation, then I wouldn’t be so interested to carry on.”

Smith has claimed two podium finishes at the highest level and was a race winner when competing in the 125cc class.

He did not rule out remaining in the sport and admitted he could take up a role as a test rider.

“At least with the test rider-type thing, you still get a chance to be inside this paddock and have a chance to ride the best motorcycle,” he said.

“What Mika (Kallio, KTM test rider) is doing would be a fantastic thing, but whether those type of opportunities become available, we’ll have to wait and see.”