Aleix Espargaró bowed out of MotoGP competition during the last race of the 2024 season. The Spaniard, who marked the history of the discipline with his relentlessness and consistency, delivered a poignant speech on his career and his legacy.
Aleix Espargaró ended his career as a starting driver in the finale of the 2024 season, contested at home on the Barcelona circuit. HAS 35 ans,
Espargaro leaves competition after 20 years in the world championship, leaving behind a legacy based on perseverance, effort and an inspiring philosophy: “
hard work trumps talent ».
Espargaro began his career in 2004 before making his first rounds in MotoGP in 2010 with
Pramac. After stints at Aspar, Forward Racing and Suzuki, it was with Aprilia that he experienced his greatest success. He took his first Grand Prix victory in 2022 in Argentina, followed by two more in 2023. These victories marked the culmination of his collaboration with
Apriliatransforming the RS-GP into a competitive machine.
In his last race, where he finished fifth,
Espargaro shared his vision of his legacy. “
There is a phrase that many people use: hard work beats talent. And I really believe it's true “, he confided. Convinced that he had less natural talent than some of his rivals, Aleix Espargaró has always compensated with an exemplary work ethic and intelligent management of his team.
Aleix Espargaró: «
I would like to be remembered as someone who never gave up »
« I would like to be remembered as someone who never gave up “, he added. After crossing the checkered flag for the last time,
Espargaro described deep relief. “
Of course, I will miss Aprilia and my RS-GP a lot. But I didn't want to run anymore. SO, I have great relief “, he explained.
Proud of what he has accomplished on the slopes and in his personal life, he sees this moment as the start of a new chapter. “ In life it is very important to understand the moments. I'm very lucky to be able to say goodbye like this “, he concluded.
Although he announced his retirement, Espargaro
could return occasionally in 2025 as a wild card as part of his test pilot duties for
Honda. However, he remains reserved on this possibility. For him, the future now looks towards other horizons, far from the pressure of regular competitions.
Aleix Espargaró leaves MotoGP with a career that embodies resilience and determination. He will be remembered as a driver who, despite challenges, fought his way to the top, proving that effort and passion can overcome all barriers.
