Axel Pons is a man with two very different lives. First, he was a motorcycle racer from Spain. Later, he changed his life in a dramatic way and began walking barefoot across countries in search of meaning. In this article, we will explore his early life, racing career, transformation, and what he is doing now.
Early Life and Family
Axel Pons was born on 9 April 1991 in Barcelona, Spain.
His father is Sito Pons, a former motorcycle champion in the 250cc class.
Because of his father’s fame and experience in motor racing, Axel grew up close to the world of motorcycles and racing. He also has a brother, Edgar Pons, who also became a racer.
Racing Career
Early Steps in Racing
Axel’s journey in professional racing began with wildcard entries in the 125cc class in 2008.
In 2009, he moved to the 250cc class with the “Pepe World Pons” team.
Moto2 Years
From 2010 to 2017, Axel competed in Moto2, the intermediate class in Grand Prix motorcycle racing.
He raced with his father’s team, and later he switched to AGR Team and then RW Racing GP.
Though he never won a Grand Prix, he had some solid performances. His career total in Moto2 includes 126 race starts and 176 points.
His best finish in a Moto2 race was sixth place at the Italian Grand Prix in 2016.
Retirement from Racing
After the 2017 season, Axel stepped away from professional racing.
He also did modeling and other work but gradually moved away from public life.
Transformation and a New Path
A Shift in Life
After retiring, Axel began to feel that his life was too fast, too noisy, and too full of expectations. He started to question his purpose.
He wanted something simpler, more real. Over time, he gave up many comforts and began a new journey.
Walking Barefoot Across Countries
One of the most striking changes is that Axel now walks barefoot.
He started walking east from Spain, passing through many countries.
By late 2024, he arrived in Pakistan while still barefoot.
In interviews and videos, he says that he first introduced himself as “Isa” (a name used in some Islamic traditions) before clarifying his birth name, Axel.
He says this journey is not merely physical but spiritual—a way to “complete union with Allah or God.”
Daily Life on the Road
Axel lives with minimal belongings. He carries a backpack, does not stay in hotels, and walks long distances every day.
His father, Sito, says that Axel wakes up early (around 5 am), practices meditation or yoga, then begins walking.
Although Axel intended to continue to India, due to visa issues, he is delayed.
What This Journey Means
Axel’s life change is extreme, but many see it as a statement against modern speed, materialism, and fame.
He seeks a deeper connection—with spirituality, with nature, and with his inner self.
People react in different ways. Some call him brave; some call him strange. Whatever the judgment, his story prompts questions like, what do we live for?
Challenges and Criticism
- Physical hardship: Walking barefoot over long distances is painful and dangerous.
- Logistics and visas: Crossing borders legally is hard, especially on foot. Axel has faced visa problems entering India. Public scrutiny: When a video of him walking in Pakistan went viral, many people speculated, criticized, or asked if he was in trouble.
- Loss of past life: He gave up comforts, relationships, and fame—all things many people value.
Lessons from Axel Pons
- Courage to change: He chose a radical transformation, leaving behind what many would see as success.
- Slowing down: His message suggests value in slowing one’s life, noticing small things, and asking deeper questions.
- Spiritual search: He shows that inner longing can lead one to paths very different from expected ones.
- Authenticity: He seems determined to live a life true to his inner voice, not just external demands.
FAQs
Q: Who is Axel Pons?
A: Axel Pons is a former Grand Prix motorcycle racer from Spain. He raced in classes like 125cc, 250cc, and Moto2.
Q: When did he retire from racing?
A: He ended his professional racing career in 2017.
Q: Why is he walking barefoot?
A: He says walking barefoot is part of his spiritual path, his way to live simply, to find God, and to slow down life.
Q: How far has he walked?
A: He has walked from Spain through many countries and by late 2024 was in Pakistan.
Q: Did he change his name?
A: He introduced himself at times as “Isa,” but his birth name remains Axel Pons.
Q: What was his best result in racing?
A: In Moto2, his best finish in a single race was sixth place (2016, Italian GP).
Q: Is he going to ride motorcycles again?
A: There is no public sign of returning to racing. His path seems to be walking and spiritual exploration now.
Q: How do people view his new life?
A: Reactions vary. Some people admire his boldness and sincerity; others think it is extreme or irrational.
Conclusion
Axel Pons life is a story of contrasts. From speed, helmets, and roaring engines, he moved to silence, bare feet, and long walks. Many see him as a symbol of escape from modern life’s demands or a messenger of deeper meaning. Whether one agrees with his choices or not, his story challenges us to reflect: What does it mean to live well?
