Aleix Espargaró has raced motorcycles for years, but after concluding his competitive career in Motorsport, he decided to accept a new professional challenge in cycling by signing a contract as a Lidl Trek ambassador. This afternoon, the 35-year-old Catalan virtually met with the press, answering many questions and addressing various topics. Here are the most significant passages.

CYCLING, A DREAM COME TRUE. "Entering the world of cycling has been just a dream for a long time. Three or four years ago, I came close, but it wasn't the right time yet. At the beginning of this year, when I decided to stop with MotoGP, I started looking around to understand what was happening in the cycling world, and before the Tour, I started talking with Lidl Trek, we reached an agreement, and I'm very happy about this. Obviously, I didn't retire from motorcycling to start a career on pedal two-wheels, but to spend more time with my loved ones, however, I feel very lucky to be able to start this adventure with Lidl Trek".

THE WELCOME AND TRAINING CAMP. "This is a new world for me, and in these days, I've understood the greatness of Lidl Trek. We've had many technical meetings, met with doctors, nutritionists, and trainers. We've done tests, tried Trek materials, Sram, and Santini clothing. I'm adapting and learning a lot. The work has been as intense as the hours spent on the bike. I was a bit afraid because there are many champions in the team and I'm the newcomer, but everyone has welcomed me wonderfully. I also discovered that many in Lidl Trek love motorcycling; in the first days of the retreat, I answered many questions and curiosities about my career. I believe motorcycling and cycling have several things in common, and I've talked about this with the team: with my experience as an athlete, I'm convinced I can help young riders grow".

THE NEW ROLE. "My main role in Lidl Trek will be that of Ambassador: marketing and communication are increasingly important, and it's in these fields that my figure will come into play. I'll be alongside the team in important races like Grand Tours or Classics, I'll make known to the world how the team works, perhaps with a video blog and social content. Lidl Trek is a great team, enthusiasts are curious to know what happens when races end, what happens on the bus, what happens after a victory, in short, the 'behind the scenes'. I think we'll do a good job".

POSSIBLE RACES. "There are Gravel races and Mountain Bike competitions that I would like to participate in, then I have the big dream of participating in a road race one day, but it's really too early to talk about it or discuss a 'calendar'. First of all, I need to work, train. We'll see at the end of February".

POSSIBLE INSERTION IN DEVO TEAM. "There has been much talk about my possible insertion in the Devo Team, which is a development squad reserved for young riders, and there's no danger that I'll take a spot from any young guys. My agreement is with the Lidl Trek Team, I'll work for the team trying to do my best".