Sandro Cortese has decided to retire from riding due to a severe accident he sustained on August 8, 2020, in Portimao during the World SuperBike Championship. At 32 years old, the German rider could escape his injuries and avoid paraplegia. He took to Instagram to announce his retirement.
Retirement post
“Dear friends,
Almost exactly 20 months have now passed since my serious accident on August 8, 2020, in the Superbike World Championship race at Portimao; I would like to inform you that I will officially end my racing career.
It was only thanks to first-class care in Portimao and the emergency operation in Faro that I escaped from paraplegia. I think about it every day and am infinitely grateful and happy to be still able to lead an everyday life.
But on the other hand, I’m a bit sad that I had to end my career so abruptly after this accident. Thanks to the unconditional support of my family, girlfriend, and friends. I was always fine during this difficult time. Since the fall, my body hasn’t been as resilient as it used to be, and it took many months of rehab to walk reasonably pain-free again.
I look back on a career that I would never have dreamed of. For 16 years, I was allowed to live the dream of a racer and be part of the MotoGP™ scene and the Supersport and Superbike World Championship.
My vision goes on because, of course, I’m staying true to racing. Again this year, I will be part of the Liqui Moly, Servus TV, and Yamaha families with great enthusiasm.
In addition, there is a new task with my long-term sponsor, the Gutmann Group, which I am looking forward to. Of course, a big thank you goes to all of you, dear friends, fans, partners, sponsors, and supporters. You have always supported me and lived my dream with me”.
