2012 eni FIM Superbike World Champion Max Biaggi has announced his retirement from racing after six championships and a career that has spanned 23 years and took him from the ranks of 125 cc machinery to MotoGP and finally to World Superbike competition. Five of Biaggi’s six titles came on Aprilia machinery.
“I’ve chosen to quit and, unlike others, it’s not because of physical issues or because I haven’t found a competitive bike,” Biaggi said in a press conference held at the at the Vallelunga circuit in Rome today, November 7. “I’ve turned down a contract with Aprilia that was identical to the one I had this year, with the same bike, for the same money.”
It turns out that family has taken a priority for the 41-year-old veteran, who also admits he’s ready to step aside and let the spotlight shine on a new generation of riders.
“I believe I’ve missed enough time with my children and my partner already, and I think it’s right that I dedicate myself to them because time flies and I can’t stop that. I’m not some old politician, attached to my chair; it’s only fair that I make way for the youngsters.”