Heartwarming Weekend In Valencia, Valentino Rossi Retires From MotoGP

Valentino Rossi (Instagram @ valeyellow46)

JAKARTA - Motorcycle racing legend Valentino Rossi, who made his last appearance in MotoGP after a 26-year career on Sunday in Valencia, said it would be difficult to retire, especially in March when the racing season starts again.

The 42-year-old has nine world titles in three categories and ended his career with a P10 finish at the Valencia Grand Prix, which was his 432nd race since his debut in 1996.

"I am motivated and focused as well as fighting for the championship because the last race is the last race, this is very important," said the rider nicknamed The Doctor after touching the finish line and was warmly greeted by fans and fellow riders, reported Antara.

A quarter of a century at the highest level! 🔝@ValeYellow46, a true motorsport icon 👏#GrazieVale pic.twitter.com/QsAFDAU4Z9

— MotoGP™🏁 (@MotoGP) November 14, 2021

"It's not easy because there's a lot of pressure but I was able to get into the top ten so that means I'm ending my long career among the top 10 riders in the world," he laughed.

"I don't want to finish last."

Thousands of flags with Rossi VR46's initials and racing numbers were flown along the Ricardo Tormo circuit to bid farewell to the most successful rider in MotoGP.

"This is a very, very special weekend," said Rossi, who won seven premier class titles (500cc and MotoGP) as well as two titles in the 125cc and 250cc classes.

"I didn't expect it. I was a little worried about the last weekend of my career.

"We imagined this moment for a long time but you never know how we will feel, whether you will be able to focus on the race, whether you will be sad. But it was a great weekend."

A #ValenciaGP we will remember for a long long time! 🙌

Check out how the last #MotoGP race of 2021 unfolded in Valencia 👀#ValenciaGP 🏁 | #GrazieVale https://t.co/ibzXgcWAJJ

— MotoGP™🏁 (@MotoGP) November 14, 2021

At the end of the race, which was won by Rossi's protégé at the VR46 Academy, Francesco Bagnaia wearing a replica helmet belonging to the mentor number 46, the 75,000 spectators stood and applauded as fellow riders gave Rossi the full track for a farewell lap.

"It's very moving. I've had tremendous support and feel huge respect from everyone in the paddock and all the riders."

Next season, Rossi's VR46 team will debut in MotoGP as a satellite Ducati team but the Italian already feels regret leaving the sport he loves so much.

"I already regret quitting," said Rossi jokingly with his trademark big smile.

"I think it will be difficult in the next few weeks and months, especially in March when the season starts again and I am not there."

Rossi also regrets failing to complete his career with a tenth title.

"Maybe if I had tried more in the first years of my career as in the last 10, I could have won more races," Rossi said with a laugh.

"But it's okay to be a little cocky when you're young. We learn by experience."