Valentino Rossi retires: MotoGP star ends incredible career with emotional statement

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MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi has confirmed that he will retire from motorcycle racing at the end of 2021 to end a glittering career at the highest level. The 42-year-old has won nine world titles and 115 races since making his Grand Prix debut back in 1996, establishing himself as one of the all-time greats in the process.

However, the current season will be his last on the grid, with the decorated champion announcing his retirement at the Styrian Grand Prix on Thursday afternoon.

“I said I would take a decision for next year after the summer break, and I decided to stop at the end of the season,” the Italian rider told a press conference.

“Unfortunately, this will be my last half season as a MotoGP rider. And it’s difficult, it’s a very sad moment because it’s difficult to say and know that next year I will not race with a motorcycle, I’ve done that for I think more or less 30 years!

“Next year, my life will change. But it was great, I’ve enjoyed it very much, it’s been a long, long journey and it was really, really fun.

“It’s 25, 26 years in the World Championship, so it was great. And I had a unforgettable moments with all my guys, the guys who work for me, so… I don’t have a lot to say! Just this.”

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