The end of the MotoGP season will mark a turning point in the career of Aleix Espargaró, who has decided to leave the competition. After many years spent defending the colours of Aprilia and bringing the RS-GP to the forefront, the Spaniard will now hand over the baton to new riders while continuing to bring his expertise elsewhere. From next year, he will join Honda as a test rider, working under the direction of current Aprilia engineer Romano Albesiano, recently recruited by the Japanese manufacturer.
A thoughtful decision, influenced by a profound change in the perception of risk. Indeed, his brother Pol's accident during the Portimao tests last year, with his eight fractures and severe nerve damage, left a lasting mark on him. Aleix remembers this difficult moment with emotion: “ the worst thing i have ever seen in my life. » This trauma played a decisive role in his decision. It was after the Jerez Sprint race that he truly made his decision, immediately calling his wife to tell her: " it's over, I'm retiring. » A decision that he fully assumes: « I never regretted it, I think I made the right choice »
Aleix Espargaró can be proud of his career at ApriliaHis contribution was essential in transforming the RS-GP, a bike once relegated to the last places, into a true MotoGP competitor, capable of aiming for victory.
Aleix Espargaró: “ I received the first offer from Lin Jarvis »
He will hand over to George Martin et Marco Bezzecchi, but with a clear-sighted look at the evolution of the sport: " The races are much more tactical and complicated to manage than before. During the whole weekend, we only do three laps at one thousand percent, everything else is very managerial. »
Aleix also revealed some interesting details regarding the proposals he received after his decision to leave Aprilia. Yamaha made him an offer to continue development of the M1, an opportunity he seriously considered. However, it ultimately fell through Honda who was able to convince him. On Motoracing read: " I received the first offer from Lin Jarvis. When Alberto Puig heard about my decision, he immediately asked me what I needed to continue. » This proposal, which materialized with a quick call, sealed his future role at Honda.
So, although his role as a racing driver is coming to an end, Aleix Espargaró remains in the paddock, ready to continue to influence the development of tomorrow's bikes. For him, this is the beginning of a new era, marked by his expertise and his desire to contribute differently to MotoGP.
