Long-term FIM Motocross World Championship promoters Infront Motor Racing. The FIM has decided to retire the #222 in honour of Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Tony Cairoli.
Who will draw the curtain on a glorious 18-year career at the season-ending Grand Prix of Cittá de Mantova Mantova on November 10?
The recently turned 36-year-old announced his transition away from full-time MXGP racing into a new role with the KTM family at a special event in Rome on September 14, 2021.
Cairoli, who started his Grand Prix career in 2004 and claimed nine world championships two in MX2 and seven in the MXGP premier class.
And is statistically amongst the most successful athletes in the sport’s history. He currently has 93 GP overall victories and celebrated six of his crowns with KTM machinery.
Cairoli was the dominant MXGP figure of the ’10s, and he ruled the division between 2009 and 2014 and then triumphed again in 2017.
He remains in the running for the 2021 title for what could be his 15th top-three classification in a championship campaign.
Infront Motor Racing officially retired the #222 – which Cairoli has worn consistently since 2007.
At the FIM Motocross of Nations and during a surprise ceremony as a special tribute to Tony’s astounding career.
No other racer other than Tony Cairoli will race the #222 in the MXGP competition in the future.
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Pit Beirer, KTM Motorsport Director: “We’ve had the privilege to be part of Tony’s story since 2010. We know how much we value him as a person and as one of the best riders the sport has seen.And it is extraordinary that the rest of MXGP feel the same way with this retirement of his number. #222 belongs to Tony.
He owned MXGP when he changed the game and brought so much dominance to the championship. He raised it to a new level for riders while also showing a passion for racing that allowed him to have a long and fantastic career.
Thanks to Infront Motor Racing and to the FIM for making this gesture. It’s not often a remarkable athlete like Tony comes along.”
Giuseppe Luongo, President of Infront Motor Racing: “Antonio has made a significant contribution to the history of MXGP, not only with his numerous titles but also with his behaviour.With his respect and with his fairness. He is an example for all young riders.
We will miss Antonio on the race track, but hopefully, we will not forget him in our world, where he will continue to offer his experience and knowledge to the next generations. Antonio, thank you for all you have submitted, and you continue to provide to motocross.”
via press release KTM
