Rossi set to stay on two wheels

The seven-time world champion's current deal with Yamaha expires at the end of 2010, and has been linked to a switch to the World Rally Championship.

But the Italian, who retained his crown at Sepang last weekend, said that his heart is set on remaining on two wheels for the time being.

When asked if he would quit two-wheeled racing at the end of next year, he told La Stampa: "I really don't think so.

"If I retire at 31, what would I do? Mow the lawn? I would have to start working. For sure, I think I can carry on until 33 or 34."

Rossi, who broke Giacomo Agostini's long-standing premier class wins record last year, believes he can one day surpass his countryman's record of 122 wins across all the grand prix classes.

"I've reached the 100 wins mark, so maybe I can edge closer to his 122-win record," Rossi, who has 19 wins less than Agostini, told Gazetta dello Sport.

"It depends on what I decide to do in 2011, whether to do another contract for one or two years. Should I decide today, I'd sign immediately for two more seasons."