P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Pol Espargaro admitted it took a ‘long talk’ with KTM before being convinced to step back from full-time MotoGP racing to test and wild-card duties in 2024.
Despite having a contract for next season, 32-year-old Pol Espargaro has agreed to step back from full-time racing to make way for Moto2 title leader Pedro Acosta. Espargaro will instead participate in some races as a wildcard and support the team and the factory in other ways. He acknowledges the demanding nature of the new racing program and understands that injuries can occur, so he is prepared to step in if needed. While Espargaro would prefer to be a full-time racer next year, he recognizes the need to approach his new role in a mature and positive manner. Money was not the determining factor in his decision, as his bank account is in good shape, and he wants to feel a purpose in his racing career. However, he is not ruling out a return to full-time MotoGP racing in 2025. Acosta, who is on track to win his second world title, is seen as a promising rider for the future by Espargaro. His final six events as a full-time MotoGP rider will take place in Indonesia this weekend.
Source: Crash
