It's always a sad day when news like this drops, i can't say I'm surprised but alas it is never news i want to read.
Davi Millsaps, Monster Energy/Knich/Yamaha Factory Racing rider and veteran of the sport has announce his retirement from racing effective immediately.
Following a nasty crash at the test track in pre Supercross training, in which Millsaps sustained a very significant concussion, he has been missing from the start of the Monster Energy Supercross series this year. As long time fans will know Barcia has been drafted in as a stand in rider and has been having the best season of his 450 career, but that is not the reason.
Millspaps has posted a very touching and heartfelt statement today and its a tough but truthful read.
Davi Millsaps
Monster Energy/Knich/Yamaha Factory Racing
"After 14 years as a professional Supercross and Motocross racer, today, I announce my retirement from racing. Obviously, this was not an easy decision for me to make. Before the crash that I sustained back in October, I felt great while on the bike and I was looking forward to an awesome 2018 season with my team, Monster Energy/Knich/Yamaha Factory Racing. Everything was falling perfectly into place: my training, my fitness and the bike. I had high expectations for the 2018 Supercross season. Then, the unexpected happened and life changed so fast. I was sent to the ICU with a major concussion, bleeding in and around my brain, and a shattered elbow, along with being bruised and banged up pretty much all over. After months of recovery and consulting with my neurologist and family, we came to the difficult decision that it was time for me to retire from racing.
"I say this with great sadness, and this is definitely not how I wanted to end my career. But health is a priority. When the doctor told me that he couldn't release me due to the risk that another impact on my head could be life-altering, not to mention life-threatening, it was pretty tough news for me to swallow. The reality of retirement was very hard to face. It brings out a bag of so many mixed emotions. It saddens me greatly to have to go out like this. I have given so much of my life to this sport. I basically grew up on a track chasing my dream.
"From the time I first rode a bike at the age of 3 till now, at almost age 30, I’ve had a blast. In return, this sport gave me an opportunity to be the best and work with the best. My racing career has brought me so many amazing opportunities, many great races competing against the sport’s finest athletes, amazing fans, and many lifelong friends. My wife, Brittney and I were fortunate to have been able to share my career with our two kids, Dane and Bryn. I cannot begin to express my sincere gratitude to so many individuals and sponsors who have stood by me throughout my entire career. I thank you, and I am very appreciative for all you have done for my family and me.
"Supercross and Motocross fans are the best fans in the world. I thank you so much for being there for me and for all you have given me through your encouragement and love. Looking back at my wins and losses, long list of injuries, surgeries, and all of the highs and lows I’ve experienced, I wouldn’t change a thing.
"I'm not going to lie, I will miss it. This sport has been so good to me, and I'm fortunate that I can walk away looking forward to the future with my family. I’ve been so lucky to have had this experience as a pro athlete and I will cherish each and every moment of it. I truly appreciate all the support over the years. Thank you, everyone!"
I would like to take this moment to thank Davi for everything he has given to the sport over the last 14 years of professional racing. He has truely left a massive legacy of racing behind him and there will be a big gap in the sport now that he has gone.
Thank you for the good times Davi, i have loved every single minute of your races. Enjoy your retirement and i know you will find success in the next stage of your journey.
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