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Fans of Valentino Rossi, Petronas Yamaha SRT
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Opinion

The Rossi-less future MotoGP must now navigate

Motorcycle racing's greatest showman has left the stage, as Valentino Rossi calls time on his remarkable career on two wheels. But in his successors, all of whom were inspired by 'the Doctor', grand prix racing has vibrant new acts to keep us hooked

On Sunday 14 November, the greatest chapter in MotoGP’s history – and one of the best in all motorsport – came to a close. We all knew it was coming, Valentino Rossi having announced 2021 would be his last season in grand prix motorcycle racing back in August. Nevertheless, it was a reality hard to comprehend.

Rossi has been racing in the world championship since he burst onto the 125cc scene back in 1996, the Italian winning his first grand prix on 18 August – just one week after this particular writer was born. For so many, Rossi has been a major part of their entire life. For MotoGP, he’s been the most important part.

Previous article Rossi to contest Gulf 12 Hours ahead of 2022 GT programme
Next article Rossi has fondness for all his “special” MotoGP rivalries

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