Ending A Brilliant Career Of More Than Two Decades, Valentino Rossi Inducted Into The MotoGP Hall Of Fame

Valentino Rossi (Instagram @ valeyellow46)

JAKARTA - Nine-time world champion Valentino Rossi was inducted into the MotoGP Hall of Fame after the Italian ended his career of more than two decades by finishing 10th at the Valencia Grand Prix on Sunday.

Seven-time MotoGP title winner Rossi, who is one of the greatest and most charismatic motorcycle champions, delighted fans with a few quick laps at Valencia's Ricardo Tormo circuit, but was unable to add to his 199 premier class podium.

The 42-year-old, nicknamed “The Doctor”, is considering a switch to auto racing after competing in the motorcycle Grand Prix.

25 years full of amazing moments we will never forget Take a look back at his @ValeYellow46's iconic career #ValenciaGP | #GrazieVale https://t.co/zpHaGMUMfC

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

"I always thought today was like a nightmare, because it's the end of a long career and I think it will happen in Valencia. But in the end, I really enjoyed it, so I have to thank everyone," said Rossi.

"Everyone I have worked with, the whole paddock, the other riders, it was an unforgettable day and I enjoyed it. It was a long career and always a pleasure."

Rossi, the only rider to have won titles in the 125cc, 250cc, 500cc and MotoGP categories, took the final lap of honor on Sunday to a standing ovation from the crowd as fireworks filled the sky, before an emotional farewell to his Petronas Yamaha team.

A rider on the bike and beyond and renowned for his post-win antics, Rossi last won a MotoGP race in 2017 with Yamaha, at the Dutch TT in Assen.