Grazie Vale, now we are waiting for you in the karting world!

The Doctor said goodbye in the best way possible to 26 years of career in the MotoGP where, for everyone, he was simply the symbol. You don't have to be a two-wheel enthusiast to know Valentino Rossi and recognise his value, his status as an icon and, as of last Sunday, his status as a legend in his own right (elected directly by the FIM at the season's Grand Gala). 
The last race in Valencia (Spain) kept everyone's eyes glued to the screen to see the last exploits, the last kilometres and the last laps of the number #46 in the top series. A tenth place finish that, in a difficult season, is as good as a victory and the best way to say goodbye. 

The nine-time World Champion had announced in his farewell press conference that he would be switching to cars, another of his great passions, where he has never looked out of place both in rallies and in GT endurance races, where he has often taken part in top-level races, most recently at Abu Dhabi with his friend Alessio Salucci and his brother Luca Marini. 

In a recent television interview, Valentino himself confirmed that the racing programme will not be at MotoGP level, but it will certainly be well done and challenging. It's hard to imagine that a personality like Rossi's would limit himself to sporadic appearances. More likely, in fact, is a commitment with Ferrari (the brand with which Valentino has always taken part in Gran Turismo races), probably in the WEC. Valentino has also confirmed that he will certainly start training with karts. Great news for all fans that in the not so distant future will see Valentino struggling with a KZ (in all probability), perhaps confirming other outputs made at the time with the package Birel Art / TM. 

So it's fair to expect The Doctor in "karting format" on the best tracks to prepare for his "new life" in the world of four wheels. The whole paddock is ready to welcome him. 

S.C.
Photo Credit: Birel Art FB Page