In 1997, 19 years ago, Valentino Rossi hinted at his dominating future of the MotoGP with his first World Championship. The self-proclaimed ‘Doctor’ who is known for his ruthless riding efficiency and extravagant podium celebrations has said that he plans on remaining in MotoGP till he turns 39 in 2018.
Turning 37 next Tuesday, Rossi outlined one of his major considerations, telling international media that he is not thinking about a single-year contract. "At the end of 2016 my contract will expire," he said. "So I will have to decide whether to continue for another two seasons or not. If I continue, it will be for two seasons as all the contracts are for two years."
MotoGP Veteran, Valentino Rossi said, "I will take five or six races to decide," "But I am pretty convinced I can continue for a couple of years and then maybe Yamaha says something, because I get white hair! He added, "But at 39 years old I will be able to run a dozen car races still, make the most fascinating races, the 24 Hours of Le Mans or the Dakar. Although there you have to get up too early!" He has always shown interest in racing on four wheels, and has participated in two WRC events.
However, it seems as if there is no slowing down Valentino Rossi, as he has shown an impressive pace in both 2015 and in pre-season testing so far. Valentino Rossi and Marc Marquez renew their bitter rivalry as the 2016 Championship gets underway in Qatar on Sunday, with accusations of betrayal and intimidation still dominating the paddock.