Loris Capirossi will retire end of season

Capirex Announces Retirement

Loris Capirossi is saying goodbye to the motorcycling world. The Italian wanted to make the announcement at Misano, the home Grand Prix for the rider from the Bologna area. After 22 years of traveling around the world, the MotoGP veteran — winner of three world championships (two in the 125cc class, one in 250cc) — thanked the Pramac Racing Team in during a press conference for having given him the opportunity to race his final season aboard a Ducati Desmosedici.

Loris Capirossi - Pramac Racing Team Rider

“It’s an important moment in my career, and the decision I made has come about after a lot of reflection. I’m happy that after 25 years, of which 22 were in the world championship, I’m at a point where I can still have a smile on my lips as I part ways, even if it’s difficult to think that I won’t be riding a bike next year. I must [thank] the many, many people who over the years have followed me, encouraged me, motivated me. That includes Team Pramac, who gave me my final opportunity to race a motorcycle. I’m sorry that I haven’t brought home good results this year, but I’m confident for the final part of the championship. Motegi, Phillip Island, and Sepang are my favorite tracks, and I’ve won many races there. It will be difficult to get my hundredth podium, but I’ll fight to the end. As for my future, I still don’t have clear ideas. The only sure thing is that I won’t be a racer anymore. In life, it’s not easy to make these decisions, especially after so many years. Still, I’m sure that my new life will be thrilling, just like the one before it was.”