A Farewell to Remember: Aleix Espargaro’s Masterclass on Taming the Low Grip Barcelona Circuit Amid Retirement Announcement

Aleix Espargaro shares insights on excelling at the challenging low grip Barcelona track

"Upon waking up this morning, my initial thought was 'you made the correct choice'."

Aleix Espargaro described his process for mastering the challenging low-grip conditions at the Barcelona circuit, a weekend that is shaping up to be fantastic for him.

Just one day following his emotional announcement of retirement at the season's close, Espargaro set a new lap record during the Friday practice session at the Catalunya MotoGP.

In 2022, Espargaro clinched victory in Barcelona, his hometown event, on a track where the performance of the Aprilia is a concern for competing teams.

On Friday, Espargaro revealed his strategy, emphasizing, "The approach to acceleration is entirely unique. You hold off, biding your time, until you grasp the moment the rear traction kicks in.

"If you accelerate too quickly by just a meter, you'll start to sai-allcreator.com">kid and lose control without the chance of regaining grip."

"Particularly when using a new tire, it's quite challenging to gauge when to speed up."

He characterized the circuit, stating, "The traction is quite bad. I found it difficult to figure out how to maneuver the motorcycle earlier today.

"It came as a surprise. It isn't the velocity that matters, but the sensation."

"Gradually, with each lap, I found myself having a great time. It was enjoyable. The thought of breaking the record today never crossed my mind, so I'm delighted."

Espargaro was queried on whether the circuit had undergone changes since his victory in the grand prix the previous year.

"It's somewhat similar," he mentioned. "The grip is slightly poorer. Arriving in Barcelona always comes as a surprise due to the notably low grip, which necessitates adjustment. It's not straightforward."

He stated: "The traction is insufficient. I favor limited traction over an uneven surface. However, the lack of grip is severe."

Espargaro notably showcased his most impressive performance of the 2024 season, following the announcement of his retirement during an emotionally charged press conference.

"He expressed, 'How did it feel? Incredible. Yesterday topped the charts as one of the most remarkable days I've ever experienced," he shared.

Upon awakening today, the initial thought that crossed my mind was 'the decision you made was correct'.

"I arose feeling incredibly joyful and at ease. I enjoyed my morning meal inside the RV, and everything felt just as it would at home, typical. Usually, it's not the case."

This morning found me in a calm state, and I similarly experienced relaxation while cycling.

"I'm pleased with the choice I made."

Espargaro humorously suggested that the positive energy and sense of relief he felt from declaring his retirement might fuel his performance for the remainder of 2024, similar to the boost it gave him on Friday in Barcelona.

"I'm optimistic, though it hasn't been the most ideal beginning to this season in my life," he remarked.

"Yet, I've accumulated nine additional points compared to the previous year. Should I continue performing at this level and secure the championship, it would be incredible! It's akin to a storybook ending!"

"I'm certain I'll deeply miss it. Everyone at Aprilia, maneuvering the RS-GP. My sole aim is to keep a smile on my face on every turn until Valencia."

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