MotoGP Misano: Victory 'special' for proud Rossi

Nine-time world champion Valentino Rossi celebrates his 107th Grand Prix victory at the Misano MotoGP round today, seizing on an opportunity when Marc Marquez crashed behind to stand on the podium top spot for the first time since Assen last year.

Nine-time world champion Valentino Rossi celebrates his 107th Grand Prix victory at the Misano MotoGP round today, seizing on an opportunity when Marc Marquez crashed behind to stand on the podium top spot for the first time since Assen last year.

Rossi lives just ten kilometres from the Italian track and the crowd’s reaction to this first win of the year was as you would expect. The Doctor was in and his legions of followers made sure every one knew it. Rossi said that he is in the best form of his career, and is the best Valentino Rossi that has been seen.

“Is great. Already the first victory is special and to make it here in Misano is incredible in front of all the crowd, all my friends, all my family, I am very proud and make it fives years since the last time, more or less the same way fighting with Jorge. I am so happy, I have to say thanks to the team, and all those who support me,” said Rossi, speaking at Misano.

“I know that if I stay in front I have a good pace. I fight with him quite strong and after I see on the board that he is disappear, I think maybe this can be easier. 

“During the weekend from yesterday, we understand that here in this track our bike is very strong, it is like we have a small advantage over the Hondas. When Marc win so many races and you see him in a little difficulty, is extra motiviation that this can be the day for win.

“On the other side, I have Jorge on the same bike so together with the team we make a good setting and I start the race with no pressure but a strong feeling. If you make a small mistake all is finish. I did a very good battle with Marc, and also Jorge. I had a small advantage to Jorge but I know he is very strong till the end so I have to concentrate.

“I think I am the best Valentino of my career. I don’t feel I am slower than when I won ten or 11 races in one season. The problem is my rivals are stronger. They are young, more professional and more focused. So this is the big problem, but I think for MotoGP if you have a good life and good training, you can arrive to 37.”