“Carmelo Ezpeleta to Attend His Final MotoGP Race as CEO: Motorsport Icon Steps Down Amid Health Concerns”

**Carmelo Ezpeleta Announces Retirement as MotoGP CEO Following Health Concerns: A Storied Era Comes to a Close**

 

*Barcelona, Spain – May 25, 2025*

 

In a heartfelt and emotional statement, Carmelo Ezpeleta, the long-serving CEO of Dorna Sports, the commercial rights holder of MotoGP, announced that he will be stepping down from his position following this weekend’s Grand Prix. After more than three decades at the helm of motorcycle racing’s premier championship, Ezpeleta revealed that ongoing health concerns have prompted his decision to retire, marking the end of an iconic era in motorsport.

 

“This weekend will be my last MotoGP race as CEO,” Ezpeleta said in a press conference ahead of the Catalan GP. “It has not been an easy decision, but after careful reflection and due to my recent health issues, I believe it is time to prioritize my well-being and step away from the day-to-day demands of this incredible sport.”

 

### A Visionary Leader

 

Ezpeleta’s career in motorsport is nothing short of extraordinary. Born in Barcelona in 1946, his association with motorsport began early as a motorsport enthusiast and administrator. In 1991, Ezpeleta joined Dorna Sports, and by 1994, he was appointed CEO. Under his leadership, MotoGP was transformed from a fragmented, relatively niche motorsport series into a globally recognized and commercially thriving spectacle watched by millions across the globe.

 

Throughout his tenure, Ezpeleta spearheaded a host of landmark changes. These included the phasing out of the old 500cc two-stroke era and ushering in the four-stroke MotoGP class in 2002, launching the Moto2 and Moto3 support classes, and strengthening safety protocols after several high-profile rider incidents. His commitment to rider safety, technological innovation, and expanding the sport’s global footprint reshaped MotoGP’s identity for the modern era.

 

Ezpeleta was also instrumental in implementing centralized management of media rights, securing long-term agreements with race circuits, and bringing races to new regions in Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas. These efforts turned MotoGP into one of the most exciting and commercially viable motorsport properties in the world.

 

### Health First

 

Despite his enduring passion and commitment, Ezpeleta’s health has increasingly taken center stage in recent months. Close insiders had speculated about his reduced public appearances and fewer international engagements. On Friday, those concerns were confirmed when Ezpeleta, now 78, formally declared his retirement.

 

“My health is no longer what it used to be,” he stated with visible emotion. “MotoGP has been my life, but it is time I focus on my health and my family. I step aside with peace in my heart, knowing the sport is in a strong place.”

 

Ezpeleta did not provide specific details about his condition but emphasized that this decision was made with his doctors’ support and the understanding of his family and colleagues.

 

### An Emotional Farewell

 

The paddock, including team principals, riders, and long-time collaborators, responded with a mix of respect, sadness, and admiration. Ducati Team Manager Davide Tardozzi said, “Carmelo gave structure, vision, and unity to the sport. Without him, MotoGP wouldn’t be what it is today.”

 

Reigning MotoGP World Champion Francesco Bagnaia dedicated his practice session performance on Friday to Ezpeleta, saying, “He believed in the riders, in the spirit of racing, and in making the sport better for everyone. It’s an emotional weekend for all of us.”

 

A special tribute is expected during the Sunday race, with organizers planning a lap of honor and farewell ceremony on the starting grid.

 

### A Smooth Transition Ahead

 

Ezpeleta emphasized that this is not a sudden decision. “We’ve been working on a succession plan for over a year,” he said. While he will no longer serve as CEO, he is expected to remain in an advisory capacity for a transitional period to ensure a smooth handover.

 

Speculation around his successor has intensified in recent weeks. Among the top contenders is Carlos Ezpeleta, Carmelo’s son and the current Sporting Director of Dorna, who has played a key role in modernizing MotoGP’s rules and expanding its digital presence. However, others believe that a seasoned international executive might be brought in to manage the sport’s increasing globalization under Liberty Media, which acquired a majority stake in Dorna Sports earlier this year.

 

Ezpeleta addressed this, saying, “The future leadership will reflect MotoGP’s growing ambitions. I am confident the next CEO will uphold the values we’ve built and lead the sport to even greater heights.”

 

### Legacy Beyond Measure

 

Carmelo Ezpeleta’s legacy in MotoGP is not just measured by titles, broadcast deals, or attendance numbers. It’s also defined by his deep respect for the spirit of competition, his hands-on leadership style, and his ability to connect with both the paddock and the boardroom.

 

He led MotoGP through challenging periods such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw the sport complete a condensed but safe season, earning widespread respect for its adaptability and resilience. He also guided it through technological revolutions like the integration of electric motorcycle racing via the MotoE World Championship.

 

MotoGP commentator Gavin Emmett summed it up: “You can argue about who the greatest rider is, but when it comes to management, Carmelo is the GOAT of MotoGP. Full stop.”

 

### Looking Forward

 

As he prepares to take in his final race as CEO at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, Ezpeleta remains proud of his journey.

 

“I leave MotoGP with no regrets, only gratitude. I thank every rider, engineer, mechanic, journalist, fan, and colleague who made this dream possible,” he said. “This sport will always be in my heart, and I will watch every race like the fan I’ve always been.”

 

MotoGP faces a new chapter, one without the man who has been its backbone for over 30 years. But thanks to Ezpeleta’s vision and leadership, it is a sport more vibrant, inclusive, and global than ever before.

 

And while the roar of the engines may no longer be accompanied by Ezpeleta’s presence in the paddock, his legacy will echo on every track, in every corner, and with every champion who lifts a trophy in the years to come.

 

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