"I do know for sure that I will go to the three major tours and the classics" - Moto GP star Aleix Espargaro talks about new venture with Lidl-Trek

At 35 years old, Aleix Espargaró, the former MotoGP star, has made a surprising career pivot, signing with Lidl-Trek. The Spaniard, who won three MotoGP races throughout his career, officially retired from motorbike racing earlier this year and is now embarking on a new adventure in professional cycling.

Speaking to In de Leiderstrui, Espargaró shared insights into his decision. “At the beginning of 2024, I revived the plan. I decided to stop riding the motorbike for good. I then started looking around. I have also been cycling a lot for years next to the motorbike and have made progress in my cycling condition. Eventually, it turned out that there were opportunities in cycling.”

Espargaró revealed that his journey into cycling began to take shape midway through the year. “We had the first talks just before the Tour de France, together with Luca Guercilena (team manager). In the end, we ironed everything out and I'm super happy with that.”

While his age raises questions about starting a professional cycling career so late, Espargaró clarified the nature of his role. “I signed with Lidl-Trek, not with the development team,” he explained. “I will simply become part of the WorldTour team. It is super difficult to say which races I will go to. I do know for sure that I will go to the three major tours and the classics.”

However, Espargaró was quick to dismiss any speculation about him competing as a rider at thes events. “No, let that be clear. I want to be present in those races and be a figurehead for this great team.

“I want to see and show how the athletes from this specific team work and recover in big competitions. That is new to me and I want to do that.”

Espargaró also highlighted his love for competitive cycling, which he has nurtured for years alongside his MotoGP career. “I love racing, I have also done a lot of competitions in the last ten years. Especially on the gravel bike and the mountain bike. I will definitely continue to do that.”