Italian motorcycling great Valentino
Rossi announced Thursday that he will quit MotoGP at the end of
the season.
"I'm really sorry. I would have liked to race another 20, 25
years, but unfortunately it's not possible," said the
42-year-old.
"But it's been good. There were unforgettable moments in which I
really enjoyed myself.
"I'll always take that with me".
Rossi has won nine world titles since his debut in the 125cc
class in 1996.
Seven of those titles were in the premium class, the last in
2009.
Rossi said his involvement in motor-racing is unlikely to stop
at the end of the year.
"I adore racing with cars, perhaps just a little bit less than
with bikes," said Rossi, who has competed in several rallies and
was at one time close to racing in Formula One with Ferrari.
"I think I'll race with cars but a decision has not been taken.
"I feel that I'm a racer, whether it be on a motorbike or in a
car, and I will remain one all my life.
"Maybe it won't be at the same level, but I think I'll race
anyway".
Rossi currently races for the Petronas Yamaha SRT team and is
19th in the riders' standings.
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