Andorran Racer Xavi Cardelús Retires from World Supersport After Yamaha Struggles

Andorran motorcycle racer Xavi Cardelús has retired from the World Supersport Championship and ended his professional riding career, citing a loss of confidence in his Yamaha bike after a dismal season with Cerba Yamaha Racing.

In an open letter, the 34-year-old detailed how high expectations at the start of the year gave way to frustration. He had joined the team optimistic about the Yamaha's potential and the leadership of Raül Jara, with whom he secured his career-best achievements, including the 2023 European Moto2 runner-up finish. Yet performance declined steadily. "Things not only failed to go as planned but worsened week by week," Cardelús wrote, pointing to the bike's lack of response despite relentless weekend efforts to improve.

After seven rounds, he sits on just two championship points—compared to 44 at the same stage last year. This gap, combined with fading trust in the machine and bleak outlook ahead, prompted deep reflection. Cardelús concluded that he no longer enjoyed piloting or racing and chose to pursue other projects that now demand his focus and spark greater motivation.

He closed by thanking family, teams, sponsors, and Andorran motorsport fans for their steadfast support throughout a career that elevated the principality's presence in international series like Moto2 and Supersport. "To all, many thanks, health, and long life," he added.