MotoGP Legend Valentino Rossi Reveals Why He Rejected Ferrari F1’s Plans to Race for Them
Follow Us
Valentino Rossi is one of the greatest MotoGP riders of all time. The Italian legend won seven championships during his storied career that still continues to this day. However, had things turned out a bit differently, Rossi may well have had a different set of titles on his resume. He could well have been an F1 world champion with Ferrari.
It’s no secret that Rossi loves F1 and Ferrari in particular. Apart from switching seats with Lewis Hamilton in a fun event at the end of 2019, he has also tested for the Prancing Horse on a handful of occasions in the past.
What’s more, Valentino had even managed to impress the higher-ups at Ferrari to such an extent that they were willing to make him their driver in the future.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
But Rossi turned down the offer, and here’s why.
The Italian is quoted by Motorsport, saying (translated via Google), “I ran multiple tests at the wheel of a Ferrari. Then the team management drew up a more comprehensive plan to prepare for the start of my Formula 1 career.
“According to this plan, I had to be a test driver first. Then I had to get behind the wheel of a slower car than Ferrari in a different team.
“That’s why I decided to refuse the offer.”
God knows what the future would have held for Ferrari and for Rossi if the move had actually worked out.
Would Rossi have been a legend in F1? Could he have guided Ferrari to a title? Nobody knows the answer to these questions.
But with seven world titles in his cabinet, Valentino wouldn’t be regretting anything.
Ferrari will be looking to make Rossi and other fans proud in 2021
The Maranello-based outfit are left reeling from their dismal 2020 campaign. The legendary Italian team only managed to end the season in sixth place on the Constructors’ Championship charts with just three podiums.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
However, they’ll be hoping to bounce back in spectacular fashion this year.
Trending
Patrick Mahomes & Wife Brittany’s Miami GP Double Date in Trouble as Travis Kelce Apparently Ditches Taylor Swift for Kentucky Derby
May 04, 2024 09:54 PM EDT
Donald Trump Receives a Round of Boos as McLaren F1 CEO is Publicly Slammed for Miami GP Antics
May 05, 2024 10:41 PM EDT
Miami GP Organisers Threaten to Revoke Donald Trump’s $250,000 Proposition for the Miami International Autodrome
April 27, 2024 04:47 PM EDT
Fans Accuse FIA of Altering the Rules for Donald Trump After Ruthless Lewis Hamilton Decision
May 05, 2024 09:21 PM EDT
Lando Norris’ Rumored GF Magui Caught ”Keeping an Eye” Despite 3000 Miles Separating The Lovebirds
May 05, 2024 01:30 PM EDT
Get instantly notified of the hottest F1 stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.
Follow Us
In Charles Leclerc, whom Rossi admires a lot, and Carlos Sainz, the Scuderia have two top-notch drivers hungry for success. The team is also optimistic on the engine front and seems to have ironed out some of their flaws from last season’s car.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
They may not pose a threat to Mercedes’ dominance, but they will surely want to avenge last season and give the Tifosi something to cheer about.
‘I’m Happy With My Decision’ – Fisichella Has No Regrets Over His Failed Stint With Ferrari F1