MICHELE PIRRO had a lucky escape today as he leapt off his bike as it burst into flames.
The MotoGP ace, 33, was out in a practice for the Valencian Grand Prix when a fire started near his back wheel.
Michele Pirro spots the fire and jumps off his bike after settling in a gravel trap
He was initially oblivious to the danger but eventually spotted the flames and pulled over before jumping off his bike
Pirro is a test rider for Ducati and is not expected to race in the season-closer on Sunday.
MotoGP legend Jorge Lorenzo has announced that he will retire after the race in Spain.
The three-time world champ, 32, made his debut in 2008 and has the fifth most victories of all time with 47.
Emotional Lorenzo said: “The day has arrived, this will be my last race in MotoGP.
“At the end of the race I will retire as a professional racer.”
Lorenzo is 19th in the standings after struggling with injuries in his time with Repsol Honda.
He added: “I love this sport but above all I love winning.
“I have let myself down and I have let down Honda but I think this is the best decision for me and the team. We are both winners and we always have to fight to win.”
Six-time MotoGP champion Marc Marquez is Lorenzo’s team-mate and the great will have a new partner for next season.
Source: Motorsport - thesun.co.uk
