Multiple FIM Motocross World Champion Toni Cairoli has announced he will be retiring at the end of the 2021 season as he looks to go out with a flourish with a historic tenth crown.
The Spaniard has been one of Motocross’ most successful and iconic performers over an 18-year career that has yielded 93 GP wins and 177 podiums.
It has made him the second most successful Motocross rider in history with his title wins coming on Yamaha (2005, 2006, 2007 and 2009) and KTM (2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2017) while he remains in the hunt for the 2021 MXGP title with nine events to go.
“This is not an easy decision. I’ve always said that numbers and statistics did not mean that much to me. I think it was an achievement for me and my family to win one world championship so to have had a career like this is very special.
“I feel that it is the right time to stop. Everything around me makes it seem like the right decision, and we are still trying to win the title this year, so the motivation is high for this challenge. I want to thank all those who have helped me and supported me since I came to the world championship, and all along the way actually.
“There have been many faces and names and of course all the excitement and love from the fans. I have felt very much part of the KTM family from day one and we will continue our work and relationship together, but now in a different way. There is a lot more to do in life after 2021 but for now our goal is very clear.”
Cairoli will remain associated with KTM beyond his racing and will take on an ambassadorial role with the Austrian firm to bring on new talent.
