Motorcycling legend Valentino Rossi announced today he will quit MotoGP at the end of the season.
Rossi has won nine world titles since his debut in the 125cc class in 1996. Seven of those titles were in the premium class, the last in 2009. He is also the only road racer to have competed in 400 or more Grands Prix.
“I’m really sorry. I would have liked to race another 20, 25 years, but unfortunately it’s not possible,” said the 42-year-old. “But it’s been good. There were unforgettable moments in which I really enjoyed myself.
“I’ll always take that with me”.
Rossi will continue racing in some form or other
Rossi said his involvement in motor-racing is unlikely to stop at the end of the year.
“I adore racing with cars, perhaps just a little bit less than with bikes.” He has already competed in several rallies. At one time he was close to racing in Formula One with Ferrari.
“I think I’ll race with cars but a decision has not been taken.
“I feel that I’m a racer, whether it be on a motorbike or in a car, and I will remain one all my life.
“Maybe it won’t be at the same level, but I think I’ll race anyway”.
Personal life is very private
Son of Graziano Rossi, a former motorcycle racer, Valentino began riding at a very young age.
Rossi keeps his personal life private. However, we know he has a fondness for Italian football club Internazionale.
Currently, Rossi races for the Petronas Yamaha SRT team and is 19th in the riders’ standings.