MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi will return to the Italian Grand Prix next weekend to see his famous number 46 retired from the sport.
The bright yellow #46 became synonymous with the Italian during the 26 seasons that he competed in grand prix racing. Despite Rossi previously stating he would like to see the number used after he left, MotoGP promoters Dorna Sports have now announced they want to honour his legacy. The special ceremony at the Autodromo Internazionale del Mugello, will take place along the main straight on the Saturday before qualifying
Rossi retired from the sport at the end of the 2021 season. He won nine world championships during his career, including seven in the top MotoGP class. He also notched up a total of 115 wins and finished on the podium 235 times across all classes.
The ‘Doctor’ has already been inducted into the MotoGP Legends Hall of Fame in Valencia.
Since stepping away from MotoGP, Rossi has moved from two wheels to four, and is currently racing in the GT World Challenge.