As the 2017 MotoGP season draws to a close, one question continues to dominate paddock conversations and fan discussions alike: will the legendary Valentino Rossi continue racing beyond his current Yamaha contract? At 38 years old, the nine-time world champion shows no signs of slowing down, and according to well-connected MotoGP observer Carlo Pernat, the Doctor has no intention of hanging up his leathers anytime soon.
Pernat's Bold Prediction: Rossi Signed for 2019
Carlo Pernat, a respected figure in the MotoGP paddock who once served as Rossi's manager, has made a confident prediction regarding the Italian icon's future. Speaking to GPOne, Pernat expressed his belief that Rossi has already secured his racing future with the Yamaha factory team.
I'm sure Valentino Rossi has signed a contract for 2019. Yamaha made the right move because Rossi is a rider who is always there in the front row.
This assessment carries significant weight given Pernat's extensive experience in MotoGP management and his personal history with Rossi. The Italian observer has maintained close ties to the racing community and often provides insider perspectives on contract negotiations and paddock politics.
What Drives Rossi to Keep Racing?
Understanding Valentino Rossi's motivation to continue racing at the highest level requires looking beyond simple competitive desire. According to Pernat, Rossi's psychology plays a crucial role in his longevity.
Valentino Rossi is always afraid of retiring, and he would only retire if he really cannot be able to continue racing anymore.
This fear of stepping away from the sport that has defined his life since childhood speaks to Rossi's deep connection to motorcycle racing. For nearly two decades, Rossi has been the face of MotoGP, transcending the sport to become a global icon recognized far beyond racing circles.
Physical and Mental Preparation
One of the key factors enabling Rossi's continued competitiveness is his dedication to physical and mental conditioning. Pernat highlighted this aspect of Rossi's approach:
Rossi is always in a condition trained physically and have a mental match like a young rider. That's what will make him sure to continue his career.
Rossi's commitment to fitness is well-documented. He maintains a rigorous training regimen at his ranch in Tavullia, Italy, where he regularly trains on dirt tracks with young riders from his VR46 Academy. This training not only keeps him physically sharp but also helps him stay mentally engaged with racing.
Reflecting on the 2017 Season
The 2017 MotoGP season provided evidence both for and against Rossi's continued competitiveness. Early in the season, Rossi demonstrated that age had not diminished his racing instincts, leading the championship standings and challenging for victories.
A Promising Start
Rossi's early-season form surprised many observers who had begun to question whether the veteran could still compete with younger rivals. His consistency and racecraft remained exceptional, allowing him to accumulate points and maintain championship contention.
Mid-Season Challenges
However, the season took a difficult turn for Rossi and Yamaha. Several factors contributed to a decline in performance:
- Motorcycle development issues: The Yamaha M1 struggled with competitiveness compared to rival manufacturers, particularly in terms of acceleration and tire management
- Injury setbacks: Rossi suffered injuries that affected his ability to perform at peak level during crucial races
- Increased competition: Younger riders on competitive machinery pushed Rossi further down the standings
Despite these challenges, Rossi's ability to remain competitive and score podium finishes demonstrated that his fundamental skills remain intact. [Related: Yamaha's 2017 Season Review]
Why Yamaha Needs Rossi
From a commercial and sporting perspective, Yamaha has compelling reasons to retain Rossi beyond the 2018 season. The relationship between Rossi and Yamaha extends far beyond simple sporting results.
Commercial Value
Valentino Rossi remains the most marketable rider in MotoGP history. His merchandise sales, social media following, and ability to attract sponsors make him invaluable to any manufacturer. Yamaha benefits enormously from the association with such an iconic figure.
Technical Development
Rossi's experience provides Yamaha with invaluable feedback for motorcycle development. His ability to communicate precisely what the bike needs and his understanding of racing dynamics help engineers improve the M1's performance.
Team Leadership
As a senior figure in the Yamaha garage, Rossi provides mentorship and leadership that benefits the entire team. His presence elevates the professionalism and dedication of everyone around him.
The VR46 Legacy: Life After Racing
Pernat also touched on what awaits Rossi when he eventually decides to retire from active racing. The VR46 team, Rossi's personal racing organization, has been developing young talent and expanding its presence in motorcycle racing.
After really retiring, Rossi will have a future in the VR46 team that will take part in MotoGP.
The VR46 Academy has already produced several talented riders who compete in Moto2 and Moto3, including Franco Morbidelli and Pecco Bagnaia. The logical progression would see VR46 eventually field a MotoGP team, allowing Rossi to transition from rider to team owner. [Related: VR46 Academy Graduates to Watch]
Rossi's Own Words on Retirement
Throughout 2017, Rossi himself has addressed questions about his future with characteristic directness. The Italian has consistently stated that his decision to continue racing depends entirely on his competitiveness. He has no interest in merely participating; he wants to win.
This approach explains why the 2018 season will be crucial. If Rossi can challenge for race victories and remain in championship contention, expect him to continue. If the Yamaha struggles to provide a competitive package, questions about retirement may intensify.
Looking Ahead to 2018 and Beyond
As fans await official confirmation of Rossi's future plans, several factors will influence his decision:
- Yamaha's competitiveness: The manufacturer must provide Rossi with machinery capable of winning races
- Physical condition: Rossi must remain injury-free and maintain his exceptional fitness levels
- Personal motivation: The fire to compete must continue burning brightly
- Results on track: Consistent podium finishes and race victories will validate his continued participation
Conclusion: The Doctor's Prescription for Success
If Carlo Pernat's assessment proves accurate, MotoGP fans can look forward to seeing Valentino Rossi on the grid in 2019 and potentially beyond. At a time when many athletes his age have long since retired, Rossi continues to defy expectations and demonstrate that passion, preparation, and talent can overcome the limitations of age.
Whether he ultimately wins another world championship or not, Rossi's continued presence in MotoGP enriches the sport and provides inspiration to fans worldwide. As we enter 2018, all eyes will be on the Doctor to see if this remarkable racing story has more chapters to write.
What do you think about Rossi's future in MotoGP? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and stay tuned for the latest news on Valentino Rossi and the upcoming MotoGP season. [Related: 2018 MotoGP Season Preview]
Valentino Rossi born 16 February 1979 is an Italian professional motorcycle road racer and multiple MotoGP World Champion. He is one of the most successful motorcycle racers of all time, with nine Grand Prix World Championships to his name – seven of which are in the premier class.
Gat a turbo for youre m1 please.
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