Cycle News Staff | April 4, 2024
Big news from the Motocross and Supercross world today as Adam Cianciarulo announced his plans to retire after this year’s Supercross season. “I am retiring from professional racing art the conclusion of this Supercross season,”Cianciarulo announced via social media. “It’s definitely not been an easy decision. As most of you know I’ve been struggling with my health for the past few years. I basically have nerve damage in my hand that’s been affecting what I can do on the motorcycle.”
AC9 was one of, if not the, most highly touted amateur racers the sport’s ever seen racking up 11 titles at the Loretta Lynn’s AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship. His professional career started off with a bang when he won his first ever Supercross race back in Dallas 2014 at the opening round of the East Coast Regional Championship. He finally clinched a championship five years later during the 2019 250 Outdoor Championship and followed that up with win at the 2019 Monster Energy Cup, his debut race in the 450SX class.
Adam Cianciarulo won the 2019 250MX Championship.
The 27-year-old Floridia-native is concluding a 20-year journey with the Kawasaki brand, earning two career 450MX wins and 11 combined SMX podium finishes.
He beat Eli Tomac at the Monster Energy Cup later that same year.
Cianciarulo continued, “I was seven years old when I signed with Kawasaki, and from my amateur career with Team Green to turning pro and my time in the 250 class with Pro Circuit, to the last four years with factory Kawasaki at the highest level in our sport, here we are 20 years later, and I couldn’t be more proud of the relationship we have built, and our accomplishments together. Through the highs and lows that are inevitable in this sport, Kawasaki has been more than just a sponsor; they have always treated me like family and had my back even when the road ahead looked uncertain. As I announce my retirement, I want to extend my deepest thanks to Kawasaki for their belief in me and their relentless commitment. It’s been an honor and a privilege to represent such an iconic brand, and to be a part of a team with the utmost integrity. I’ve made friends that will last a lifetime, and memories I will always cherish. My love for racing, and our sport in general, is stronger than ever, and I look forward to the future with the same excitement I had as a kid dreaming of the career I was so fortunate to have had.”
Cianciarulo is concluding 20 years with the Kawasaki brand.
“Adam Cianciarulo’s retirement marks the end of an era in Supercross and Motocross, but his impact on the racing community will resonate for years to come,” said Dan Fahie, Sr. Manager of Kawasaki Racing. “His talent and dedication to Monster Energy Kawasaki have been unparalleled, leaving an unforgettable mark on our team and the sport as a whole. We’re grateful for his contributions and proud to have been part of his journey. Adam’s legacy will continue to inspire both on and off the track.”
Adam Cianciarulo leading the pack into the first turn.
“Adam Cianciarulo’s decision to retire following the conclusion of the 2024 Monster Energy AMA Supercross season is a testament to his integrity and commitment to the sport,” said Naoki Kawaguchi, President of Kawasaki Motors., U.S.A. “As a long-time Kawasaki Team Green™ rider, Adam has exemplified the values of perseverance, passion, and sportsmanship throughout his career. We are immensely grateful for his contributions to Kawasaki and everyone at Kawasaki extends our heartfelt gratitude to Adam and wish him continued success and fulfillment in his future endeavors.”
To hear more about the decision from Adam’s perspective, check out the latest episode of his “Plugged In” podcast.
Thanks for the memories Adam!
