Aleix Espargaró Joins Lidl-Trek Cycling Team Following MotoGP Retirement

Former MotoGP rider joins the Lidl-Trek Cycling Team in a special role, pushing his limits on two wheels, this time powered by pedals rather than engines.

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Three-time MotoGP race winner Aleix Espargaró has officially joined the Lidl-Trek professional cycling team following his retirement from motorcycle racing. The Spaniard will take on his new role as an ambassador for the team starting in 2025, participating in some of the sport’s most prestigious events.

Espargaró, who has been an avid cycling enthusiast for nearly a decade, turned to the sport after a back injury forced him to stop running. Cycling became his go-to method for training and staying in peak condition during his MotoGP career.

“I’m thrilled to join the Lidl-Trek family, which is home to some of the world’s best cyclists,” said Espargaro in a statement. “Living in Andorra, I made friendships with many pro cyclists, which inspired me to train at a higher level.”

Lidl-Trek welcomes @AleixEspargaro to the family

The three-time MotoGP race winner will serve as a Lidl-Trek ambassador, joining the Team at some of the most prestigious events on the calendar whilst promoting the sport of cycling to a wide audience pic.twitter.com/ousBthogXs

— Lidl-Trek (@LidlTrek) December 16, 2024

He added: “Cycling has been a passion of mine for years, and I decided to step away from MotoGP earlier than planned to join a program which aligns so well with my passion. I’m deeply grateful to Lidl-Trek for welcoming me to their family and supporting me. I’ll give it everything I have.”

Espargaró, 35, announced his retirement from MotoGP earlier this year and concluded the 2024 season in 11th place after a seven-year stint with Aprilia. Over his remarkable 15-year career, he notched three Grand Prix wins and made 255 MotoGP starts, placing him second on the all-time list for most starts behind only the legendary Valentino Rossi.

While Espargaró transitions to his cycling role, he will also remain involved in MotoGP as Honda’s test rider, ensuring his continued influence in the world of motorcycle racing.

Lidl-Trek general manager Luca Guercilena praised Espargaró’s addition to the team, saying: “Working with Aleix will be incredibly rewarding for us, and especially for our young riders. We know he is a strong, passionate cyclist, but he also brings different experiences and perspectives to the team. He can help our younger athletes understand and handle the pressures that come with top-level competition.”

Espargaró’s move to Lidl-Trek marks an exciting new chapter, combining his lifelong love for cycling with the competitive spirit that defined his MotoGP career.