Jonathan Rea Ends Six-Time World Superbike Career Early Due to Knee Injury at Jerez

Jonathan Rea's illustrious World Superbike career ended prematurely due to a crash during the Superpole race at Jerez, where he sustained a right knee sprain and contusion that prevented him from starting his final race. The six-time World Superbike champion, who had planned to retire after the season's final event, was stretchered off following a collision with Remy Gardner, marking an unfortunate conclusion to the career of the sport's most decorated rider. Despite earlier setbacks, including a crash in Race 1 that left him frustrated and concerned about his right arm, Rea had been competitive throughout the weekend and aimed to finish strongly. The crash not only ended Rea's career earlier than anticipated but also impacted the championship race, as other key riders experienced incidents, further intensifying the title battle. Rea leaves the sport holding records for the most titles, wins, podiums, and fastest laps, cementing his legacy as the greatest World Superbike rider of all time. His Yamaha team confirmed his injury and subsequent withdrawal from the final race, signaling an abrupt and poignant end to his full-time racing career.