P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Jonathan Rea says he “felt like a character in a game that was going to die” before his WorldSBK retirement.
Jonathan Rea decided to retire from full-time racing in WorldSBK midway through the 2025 season, feeling like a character in a dying game.
Despite only achieving one podium and one pole position with Yamaha, he was confident in his decision to retire, though he had some fears about what would come next.
Rea expressed mixed emotions, acknowledging the quick and somewhat unexpected nature of his decision during a press conference in Jerez.
While the negative aspects of racing, such as injuries, factored into his choice, he also expressed gratitude for the opportunities and experiences Superbike racing provided him.
Looking forward to a slower pace of life and spending more time with his family, Rea expressed heartfelt thanks to the industry for making his dreams a reality.
