Pol Espargaró left MotoGP as a full-time rider at the end of 2023, paving the way for Pedro Acosta to move up to the category. The KTM test rider recalled his accident, which had severe consequences and required a lengthy recovery, and how it made him value aspects beyond racing even more.
The Spaniard told Crash how he gained a new understanding of himself and his career following the accident in Portimão, where he suffered a fractured jaw, vertebrae, and lung injuries:
– After the accident, I realized it was no longer just about me. I have two daughters and a wife. Being at home and not being able to hold your child because you have back or arm pain was painful.
The rider did compete later that year, but far from being at 100%, even after months of recovery. He eventually stepped down from his role as a full-time rider at the end of the year, making room for Acosta, whom he praised: ‘I left a place for Pedro, and look at what he’s doing! It’s incredible.’