Unusual schedule for MotoGP rider and Lidl-Trek cyclist Espargaró: Cycling debut in Austria after TT Assen

The Spaniard retired as a MotoGP rider in 2024 and has traded in his two-wheeler for another non-motorized bike this year. He will compete for the American team's development squad in 2025. “I am very excited to join the Lidl-Trek family. It is home to the best riders in the world,” the enthusiastic Espargaró told this website at a press conference.

"You always have to believe in yourself; you get a lot of opportunities during your career. I've now decided to try this, and I can do it. I think it's also an example for everyone who has a dream. In addition, I want to be a mentor for the development team, which is the best in the world. They help you grow as a professional athlete and as a person. Ultimately, I want to be that for the WorldTour riders in difficult moments, both on and off the track," said the new Lidl-Trek signing.

Espargaró has not yet made his debut in the cycling peloton. But that is about to change: the MotoGP star will start his first professional cycling race in the Tour of Austria on July 9. “Since joining the Lidl-Trek family, Espargaró has participated in training camps with the team and benefited from coaching by Lidl-Trek's performance staff,” according to the team website. “The Catalan is ready for the next step in his sporting career and will test himself during the hilly stage race in Austria.”

“I am very happy with how this year has gone. It has completely changed my life and everything I did before,” said Espargaró. “It's great to be part of such a big team as Lidl-Trek. I've grown enormously as a cyclist and learned much in these six months. I feel good and can't wait to race and test my legs against some of the best cyclists in the world. I have a strong team around me that is teaching me the ins and outs of the sport.”

Just before his debut in Austria, Espargaró can be seen in the Netherlands, where the 35-year-old will participate in the TT Assen, one of the MotoGP races. “It's going to be cool because the week before the race in Austria, I'll be riding as a wildcard in the MotoGP in the Netherlands. It will be a nice challenge, but I don't have any expectations for my cycling debut. I will try to learn as much as possible, help my teammates, and, most importantly, enjoy the suffering!”

Espargaró has not said goodbye to MotoGP for good. Although he has stopped racing full-time, he has decided to remain in the world of motorcycling during the motorcycle season. As a test rider for Honda HRC, he can participate in a few Grand Prix races, including the Dutch Grand Prix.