Girona, Spain – Former MotoGP rider Aleix Espargaró is facing scrutiny after a video surfaced showing him overtaking multiple vehicles during a descent on the Els Àngels pass near Girona, Spain. The incident, captured on video and widely circulated on social media, has prompted a response from his affiliated cycling team, Lidl-Trek, who stated the behavior does not align with their values.
The video, initially shared on Instagram by Museu Motos Folgado (@museumotosfolgado) on Sunday, March 3rd, 2026, depicts a cyclist in Lidl-Trek apparel passing several cars on a winding downhill stretch. Espargaró, 36, transitioned to cycling in late 2024, joining Lidl-Trek as an ambassador and development team member while continuing his role as a test rider for Honda’s motorcycle division. The footage quickly gained traction, sparking debate about the safety and appropriateness of the overtaking maneuver.
Lidl-Trek addressed the situation swiftly, issuing a statement reported by Spanish newspaper El País. “We are aware of the images circulating this week on social media and we desire to be very clear: the behavior shown by Aleix Espargaró does not reflect the values or standards that govern us as a team,” the team said. “We are taking this matter very seriously and are in process of speaking directly with the rider.”
While the video appears to show the overtaking occurring on a section of road where passing is permitted, and with Espargaró seemingly maintaining control, the speed and nature of the maneuver have drawn criticism. The incident has reignited discussions about cyclist and motorist safety on shared roadways, particularly on challenging descents.
Espargaró, currently residing in Andorra, has not yet publicly commented on the video or the ensuing controversy. He spent 260 Grand Prix races competing in MotoGP before pursuing his passion for cycling. His dual role – cyclist and Honda test rider – required a decision between the two disciplines, ultimately leading him to prioritize motorcycle racing, though he continues to cycle as a hobby.
This incident echoes a similar situation from October 2025, where professional cyclist Kiko Galván was released from his team, Kern Pharma, after video surfaced of him making dangerous maneuvers on a road in Catalonia. That incident, like Espargaró’s, was widely shared on social media and led to immediate repercussions. The parallels highlight the increasing scrutiny cyclists face when their actions are captured and disseminated online.
The Els Àngels pass is a popular training route for cyclists in the Girona region, known for its challenging climbs and fast descents. Girona itself has grow a hub for professional cycling, attracting riders from around the world due to its favorable climate and varied terrain. The area’s popularity, however, also means increased traffic and potential for conflict between cyclists and motorists.
It’s important to note that while the video shows Espargaró overtaking vehicles, the full context of the situation – including traffic conditions and visibility – is not entirely clear from the footage alone. However, the team’s response underscores the importance of responsible cycling and adherence to road safety regulations, even during training rides.
The incident serves as a reminder for all cyclists, regardless of their professional status, to prioritize safety and respect for other road users. Lidl-Trek’s quick response also demonstrates the growing awareness within the cycling community regarding the importance of promoting a positive image of the sport and upholding ethical standards.
As of March 5th, 2026, Lidl-Trek has not announced any further disciplinary action regarding Espargaró. The team has stated they are continuing their internal review and discussions with the rider. The cycling world will be watching to observe how this situation unfolds and what impact it may have on Espargaró’s role as a team ambassador.
Espargaró is not currently scheduled to compete in any official cycling events. He is expected to continue his duties as a Honda test rider, with the next MotoGP testing session scheduled for later this month. Fans can follow updates on Espargaró’s activities through his social media channels and the official websites of Honda and Lidl-Trek.
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