After retiring from his full-time MotoGP career in September, Aleix Espargaro has signed a contract with the Lidl-Trek cycling team. The Spaniard will begin his new journey with on January 1, 2025. His role will also see Espargaro join the Lidl-Trek team “at some of the most prestigious events on the calendar”.
“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,” Espargaro explained. “I’m deeply grateful to Lidl-Trek for welcoming me to their family and supporting me. I’ll give it everything I have.”
The 35-year-old Granollers native is no stranger to competitive cycling. Back in 2021, Espargaro was on the verge of signing with Spain’s Movistar cycling team, a move he described ill-timed.
“When I was close to signing with Movistar in 2021, I was like a child – so excited that it’s hard to describe. But shortly after, I stood on the podium with Aprilia in Silverstone for the first time, and I felt it wouldn’t have been fair to walk away at that moment to pursue cycling.”
Now, however, the timing seems perfect. Espargaro has already begun training with his Lidl-Trek teammates in Denia, Spain. His move to one of the top-ranked cycling teams is the realization of a long-held dream for the Spaniard.
“I’m thrilled to join the Lidl-Trek family, which is home to some of the world’s best cyclists. I’m excited to learn from some of the best cyclists and staff in the sport, push my limits, and share this special journey with fans.”
While his Lidl-Trek commitments will dominate his schedule in 2025, Espargaro’s MotoGP connection remains intact. Following his emotional farewell as a full-time rider at Aprilia, he has taken on the role of chief test rider for Honda’s RC213V project. Espargaro began testing for the Japanese manufacturer during MotoGP’s official post-season test in Barcelona.
