Italian motorcycle racing legend Max Biaggi has decided to retire, having recently picked up a second World Superbike crown. The highly-successful rider, who also claimed four 250cc titles during his time on two wheels, made the announcement at the Vallelunga Circuit where he began his career over twenty years ago.
The 41-year-old made a relatively late start to his racing career, beginning in his latter teens before progressing to the aforementioned 250cc class. Upon his graduation to MotoGP he became one of Valentino Rossi's arch rivals, finishing runner up to his compatriot in both 2001 and 2002. After a short sabbatical, he joined the World Superbike grid where his recent achievement sees him depart as a World Champion.
"I've chosen to quit and it's not because of physical issues or that I haven't found a competitive bike," Biaggi explained to Italian newspaper Corriere dello Sport. "I turned down a contract with Aprilia that was identical to the one I had this year, with the same bike for the same amount of money.
"I believe I've missed enough time with my children and my partner already. I think it's right that I devote myself to them because time flies and I can't stop it. I'm not some old politician stuck to my chair, it's only fair that I make way for the younger riders."
Biaggi dramatically clinched this year's World Superbike title by just half a point, doing enough to fend off British rival Tom Sykes with his results at the Magny-Cours finale.
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