Aleix Espargaro will end his career as a full-time MotoGP rider after this weekend's Solidarity GP.
After 14 years in MotoGP, Aleix Espargaro will end his career in the premier class this weekend. The Spaniard will end his career at home in Barcelona for the Solidarity Grand Prix.
Throughout his career, Espargaro has won three MotoGP races and stood on eight further MotoGP podiums. The MotoGP veteran has raced for multiple manufacturers during his career such as Ducati, Suzuki, Yamaha and Aprilia.
"It is a very special weekend," Espargaro said ahead of his final Grand Prix. "I have mixed emotions, there will be more emotions throughout the weekend. I will struggle not to cry!
"But at the same time, it is a bit strange because we should be in Valencia. It is normally the last race of the season and it is automatic, there are parties in Valencia. But this year it is a bit sad and strange to be here, even though it is my favourite place on earth.
"I will try to enjoy my last race at home with my people and my family. Hopefully, we can put on a good show and raise a lot of money for the Valencian people."
The MotoGP Championship battle is still ongoing as Francesco Bagnaia and Jorge Martin are still in the title fight. Martin has a 24-point lead over Bagnaia, but Espargaro believes Bagnaia is the favourite in the Solidarity Grand Prix.
"I have analysed the last two races here in Barcelona and Pecco is always very strong," Espargaro stated. "I would say he is one of the favourites to win the GP. At corner one it is unbelievable how late he brakes, so it will be difficult to beat him.
"I don't think Jorge (Martin) needs to think about the victory, like he did in the other GPs, he has quite a big margin. It is going to be a good show for the people."
'I would love to be in the battle for the victory because it is my last GP.'
Espargaro believes that his good friend, Jorge Martin's, consistency in 2024 has aided him in his title fight. However, he is very impressed by Bagnaia's 'crazy' amount of victories this season.
"This is what this game is all about, consistency," Espargaro said. "You can be very fast like Pecco has been and win 10 races this season, which is crazy, but he has made many mistakes.
"There have been fewer mistakes for Jorge, so they arrive with a small advantage for Jorge. It will be difficult how they manage their weekends."
Despite being good friends with Martin, Espargaro has stated that he will not help the Prima Pramac rider. The Aprilia Racing rider believes his friend will not need his help to secure his first MotoGP World Championship.
"He does not need it," Espargaro said when asked if he would help Martin. "Pecco and Jorge have put on an amazing show throughout the season, they are both very clean riders. They are always on the limit, but they never create any drama.
"As a fan, it has been amazing to watch their head-to-heads. I would love to be in the battle for the victory because it is my last GP, but I do not think Jorge needs any help."
After retiring as a full-time racer Espargaro will become a Honda Racing Corporation test and development rider.
