Adios Pablo – Quintanilla retires from racing

Former World Rally-Raid Champion and Dakar Rally runner-up Pablo Quintanilla has announced his retirement from Rally Raid and professional motorcycle racing.

With two Cross-Country Rallies World Championships (2016 and 2017) and three Dakar podiums – including two runner-up finishes in 2020 and 2022 – Chilean Pablo Quintanilla is something of a legend in his own country.

A consistent and fierce competitor over different generations of rally-raid, Quintanilla was also a well-respected rider within the Dakar and W2RC paddocks.

“Today is an important day for me.” Says Pablo. “I have announced my retirement from professional motorcycling after 15 years of giving my all.

I have had the opportunity to win two world championships and to be on the podium of the Dakar three times.

I had the opportunity to fulfill several of my dreams which makes me very proud. The last few years of my career have been a pleasure to be part of the Monster Energy Honda HRC team.

I leave the motorcycle world with a smile on my face. I have lived what I had to live, I have made many friends along the way and I will keep those moments.”

Born in Valparaíso, Chile, Quintanilla has been one of the most iconic figures in South American and global off-road motorcycling. From his early beginnings in motocross at the age of six to reaching the top of rally cross-country, Pablo built an inspiring career in rally, elevating the sport in South America during the years the race was held on the continent.

Best known for his runner-up places with the now defunct Rockstar Husqvarna Rally team, Pablo joined Monster Energy Honda HRC in 2021 and quickly became a key part of the team.

Pablo bids farewell after a serious crash during Stage 8 of the 2025 Dakar Rally. Although he made a successful recovery, it is reported the incident led to him making the decision to call time on his career.

Photo Credit: Honda + Husqvarna