“If we had wanted, we could have taken MotoGP, but without Valentino Rossi it no longer works as before“. The words of Pier Silvio Berlusconi clearly explain why Mediaset no longer considered the premier class of two wheels (whose TV rights in Italy have been exclusive to Sky since 2014). The timing with which the satellite broadcaster announced the renewal – two days before Christmas – suggests that Sky also had doubts about the extension after a 2025 with declining ratings. He, Valentino, is aware that he is still very loved in Italy. And, beyond the sporting triumphs, he believes that his greatest achievement was reigniting Italians’ passion for two wheels.
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The words of Valentino Rossi
“In my career the greatest satisfaction is having introduced motorcycling to many people, in Italy many started following the races during my career. This is what makes me most proud even today“, these are the words of the Doctor.
“I miss racing in the World Championship a bit, but now I race cars and I am having a lot of fun. MotoGP, however, was my first love“, he added. “I am still a great fan of racing even now that I no longer race, the Academy was born with the idea of helping many young Italians and the results are very positive. I think I can say that we are doing a good job for the tricolor“.
Rossi connected via video to the event Moto d’Italia – Culture beyond the track, which took place today at the Farnesina. The initiative, dedicated to enhancing motorcycling as an expression of Italian excellence, was attended (among others) by Francesco Bagnaia, Max Biaggi, Giacomo Agostini, Massimo Rivola and also MotoGP SEG CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta.
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