MotoGP Veterans Bid Farewell as Stefan Bradl Makes Final Start

Bradl Bows Out: MotoGP Era Ends for Espargaro, Nakagami, and the Veteran Test Rider.

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The conclusion of the Solidarity Grand Prix at Barcelona marked the end of an era for MotoGP, as long-time stalwarts Aleix Espargaro and Takaaki Nakagami stepped down as full-time riders. Their departure not only reshaped the grid but also signalled a farewell for another veteran, Honda’s test rider Stefan Bradl.  

Bradl, 34, made his 131st and final MotoGP start on Sunday, bringing to a close a career that spanned over a decade. While his full-time tenure ended in 2016, Bradl remained a key figure for Honda, stepping in as a wildcard and injury replacement, most notably during Marc Marquez’s injury-plagued 2020 season.  

As Espargaro and Nakagami transitioned into test rider roles for Honda, Bradl welcomed the change, noting the significant workload he had shouldered in recent years.  

“I was happy to take on the responsibility because it showed they trusted me,” Bradl said. “But having Aleix and Taka next year will be a huge help. We needed more opinions and more people to share the work.”  

Espargaro, recognized for his development expertise with Suzuki and Aprilia, joined Honda’s test team to enhance its MotoGP program. Meanwhile, Nakagami returned to Japan to bridge the gap between Honda’s manufacturing base and its European racing operations.  

Honda, classified as a ‘Rank D’ manufacturer under MotoGP’s concession rules, was granted six wildcard entries this season, all of which were utilized by Bradl in addition to his extensive private testing schedule. However, he anticipated Espargaro and Nakagami would take on the wildcard duties in the future.  

“I think this was my last wildcard here,” Bradl admitted. “Aleix and Taka have more speed as they’re still permanent riders next year. I was fine with that. It was time for them to take over.”  

Bradl’s career highlights included a pole position and podium finish at Laguna Seca in 2013 during his stint with LCR Honda, as well as a Moto2 championship win in 2011 after a memorable battle with Marquez.  

Reflecting on his journey, Bradl expressed peace with his decision to step away. “It’s not a strange feeling,” he said. “I’ve been here a long time and knew how to handle this. It felt like a full circle—19 years ago, I had my first wildcard here in Barcelona in 125cc, and now it’s likely my last MotoGP race. It was a good way to close the chapter.”  

Although Bradl acknowledged the possibility of a return as an emergency stand-in, he believed this race would likely mark the end of his MotoGP career—a quiet yet fitting conclusion to a remarkable journey in the sport.