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MotoGP star quits “harder than expected” post-racing career switch
Three-time MotoGP race winner Aleix Espargaro has decided to end his professional cycling career in 2025, citing the challenges he faced alongside his Honda test role. Despite retiring from MotoGP in 2024 after securing three wins and aiding in the development of the Aprilia bike, Espargaro struggled with injuries and balancing his commitments in the cycling world. In his Instagram post, he expressed pride in pushing himself despite the difficulties he encountered as a professional cyclist at the age of 35. Espargaro acknowledged that the demands of the cycling world exceeded his initial expectations, leading him to refocus on his role with Honda while continuing to train with Lidl Trek in 2026. He recognized the need to prioritize and be more focused, ultimately deciding to step back from professional cycling and dedicate himself more fully to his Honda responsibilities.
