Aleix Espargaro, who stepped into a Honda MotoGP test role after ending his full-time racing career, described his early experience in 2025 as initially challenging but ultimately rewarding. As a three-time MotoGP race winner, Espargaro contributed to Honda through wildcard entries and numerous private test sessions in his debut year with HRC.
The Spanish rider joined the factory at the close of 2024, taking on significant responsibilities to help elevate Honda’s performance. However, Espargaro admitted that balancing his passion for cycling and the team’s limited early-year schedule meant he was slow to become fully immersed in his test duties for the first several months.
Balancing Racing Commitments and Honda’s Demanding Schedule
During the initial phase of his transition, Espargaro completed only one test with Honda in the first three to five months of 2025. He openly shared that his focus was split, stating,
“In the first part of the year, I have to admit I was really focused on cycling, and the calendar I had with Honda was not the right one.”
As a result, he felt somewhat disconnected from Honda’s efforts and the team’s goals during this early period.
Espargaro’s increased involvement as the year advanced marked a turning point. By ramping up his participation before the summer break, he began working more closely with members of the Honda team, including technical director Romano Albesiano. He also gained valuable insights into the dynamics within the HRC factory garage by visiting races in support of Joan Mir and Luca Marini.
Reflecting on his evolving role and feelings, Espargaro said at the Valencia Grand Prix,
“It’s very different, and it has been like two different ways during the year,”
—Aleix Espargaro, Honda MotoGP Test Rider.
Growing Connection with the HRC Factory Team
The latter part of the year proved transformative for Espargaro. As he committed more time, he described the last three months as deeply emotional and highlighted the sense of belonging he developed within the Honda Racing Corporation.
“I’ve enjoyed it a lot, I’ve been very connected, I’ve started to be more a part of the HRC factory team,”
Espargaro noted, further praising the welcoming atmosphere and camaraderie,
“They are really nice people, and I really love to be part of that.”
On the multifaceted nature of his new role, Espargaro emphasized the satisfaction he derived from supporting Honda in various capacities:
“So, my job is very nice because I can ride my bike, I can help them from the garage, I can learn a lot, I can try to help them.”
—Aleix Espargaro, Honda MotoGP Test Rider.
Shifting Focus from Cycling to Full Engagement with Honda
Earlier in the month, Espargaro announced his decision to end his professional cycling career with Lidl Trek so he could dedicate more energy and focus to his Honda MotoGP test role. This move signals his growing commitment to playing an integral role in Honda’s testing and development programs as the team looks to bolster its performance in future seasons.
Espargaro’s experience underscores the unique challenges and rewards faced by elite athletes transitioning into new roles, especially within dynamic motorsport environments. As he becomes more embedded within Honda’s MotoGP operations, both Honda and fans will be keen to see how his expanded presence influences the team’s trajectory in coming years.
