Valentino Rossi has truly remarkable presence on and off the MotoGP track with performance never been matched before in history at MotoGP at Misano this weekend.
‘The Doctor’ defied what is possible in Motorsport- starting from Q 4th on 2nd row, Valentino left no doubt that on track he remains force to be reckoned with down-to-chequered-flag 4th Overall. Off track was equally amazing, with outstanding success from 4 proteges from Rossi’s VR46 Academy taking maiden win and first-ever podiums in MotoGP and Moto 2.
For Franco Morbidelli (Petronas Yamaha SRT) taking his maiden MotoGP win at Misano today was an overwhelming feeling, one which he paid all respect, praise and admiration to Valentino whose dedication to nurturing young Italian riders was the reason behind his victory.
Morbidelli: ‘”Valentino is a champion. He has many facilities to live in, work in, to be a good rider, professional and athlete. He has put his know-how and his facilities at our service, so it is a really noble act from him. He is a friend, he is a big uncle I like to call him, because I show and bring him huge respect than what I have for others”‘. Courtesy Crash Net.
For Francesca Bagnaia (Pramac Racing) the struggle on track was real with first outing back racing after leg injury one month prior at Brno. Completing Rossi’s Academy 1-2 podiums, the 2018 Moto2 Champion exalts full compliments to his mentor, Rossi for sharing wealth of experience, knowledge and advice to the young Italian rider.
Bagnaia: ‘”Everything you ask Vale, he has an answer for you and this is incredible. I have to say, it helped me a lot in 2018 when I was fighting for the Moto2 Championship. Vale has created something incredible and we have enormous respect for him”‘. Courtesy Crash Net.
Moto2 hailed 2 brilliant victories with VR46 Academy riders Luca Marini and Marco Bezzecchi finishing 1-2 both racing under Sky Racing Team VR46. With such positive results flowing across range of talented Italian riders, Valentino would be expected to take heart on what ‘The Doctor’ has achieved.
Not surprisingly, Rossi commented after his protege Bagnaia passed him during MotoGP race on Sunday- ‘”There was a moment during the race where I asked myself- who the hell’s idea was it to make the Academy?”‘
Yet, confirmed- ‘”Seriously, it is great satisfaction because we work with them every day to make them grow. We did a great thing for Italian Motorcycling- it’s just a pity they grow so strong, so early”‘.
‘”But, when I stop, we can still cheer on our riders. So I am happy“‘. Courtesy Autosport.com.
MotoGP Round 8 Misano September 20th.
Words: Sharon Cox.
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