Valentino Rossi Turns 20

The old circuit Shah Alam, Malaysia, March 31, 1996: A very young Italian rider who had drawn attention in the championships he had competed in before was about to start his first Grand Prix. Exactly 20 years ago today, this young rider launched his Grand Prix career. The name of the Rider? None other than Valentino Rossi.

In that first race, the young son of Graziano Rossi – a leading rider in 250cc and 500cc in the late '70s early ‘80s – finished sixth behind a certain Emilio Alzamora. The following year, the young Valentino Rossi won his first world title and it did not take much time after that to stop being referred to as the son of Graziano. Rossi added titles in each of the categories in which he competed, collecting victories and becoming the icon of a sport that at his hand reached a new dimension. Valentino Rossi became synonymous with motorcycling, conquering audiences unimaginable until his appearance. This led him to become one of the best known characters in the world and one of the highest paid athletes in the world.

Today Rossi, those of us who love motorcycling call him Valentino, celebrates the 20th anniversary of that first race. After two decades, at 37 years old, he has not lost one iota of that enthusiasm and determination that emanated from every pore of his skin. Obviously, over the years a bit of that freshness and irreverence that characterized him has waned, but none of his determination to win. It makes no difference that he may have millions in the bank or be the most popular celebrity in his entire country, come race time Rossi participates with the same determination he had on March 31, 1996 in Shah Alam.

It’s hard not to thank him for everything he has done for our sport, the magical and unforgettable moments that has given us all these years ... and for having decided a few days ago that he will continue for at least two more years in MotoGP. "It is assumed that this will be your last contract as a GP rider" we asked in Qatar Rossi, who at the end of 2018 will be 39 years old.

"90 percent certain, yes," he replied, leaving the door to a change his mind open when the time comes! This is Valentino Rossi for you.