2006 MX2 World Champion and 2-time AMA Supercross 250SX Eastern Regional Champion, Christophe Pourcel, has announced his retirement from professional racing.
The 29-year-old Frenchman was known for his abundance of natural talent, flawless technique and raw speed but failed to reach his full potential due to a number of serious injuries.
After winning the MX2 World Championship in 2006 Pourcel set out to defend his title in 2007 only to suffer a terrible crash at the Irish MXGP that would leave him temporarily paralyzed.
Pourcel spent 2008 recovering and in 2009 he went to America where he won back-to-back 250SX East Coast titles in 2009 and 2010.
The years following Pourcel’s AMA Supercross success were littered with bad luck and injuries in both his American and European racing campaigns. In 2015 he signed with Rockstar Energy Husqvarna in the U.S but two neck injuries in 2016 set him back further.
In 2017 Pourcel returned to racing and contested the Canadian Nationals where he would ride out the remainder of his racing career.
You can read his full statement below.
“Well, today is the day, I am pleased to announce my retirement from racing. It’s all I’ve ever known, but I have been so blessed and fortunate to race all around the world in front of many fans and to work with many great companies.
“From racing GP’s, winning a world championship, then coming to America, two supercross championships, winning races… and now finding a new life here in The States, racing has given me so much.
“Those good times don’t come without tough times, from my paralyzing accident in 2007, internal injuries, countless collar bones, to my most recent neck fractures. I’ve had my fair share of injuries but I’m happy to walk away happy and healthy. I’m looking forward to the next chapter of my life away from racing. I’ve sacrificed so much in life, things that are normal for most people, to dedicate my life to racing and training.
“I want to enjoy this time now with my wife, family, and friends and to say THANK YOU to all the great people and companies that have supported me throughout my career and to the fans who have enjoyed watching me race.
“It’s been a tough decision, I know I can still be competitive but my body has said enough with the injuries!! I’m 29 and have so much more life to live. Again thank you all and see you around!!”
Photos: Simon Cudby