FreestyleXtreme Magazine Issue 8 | Page 62

//////////////////////////// //////////////////////////// The Valentino Rossi legacy transcends motorcycling, and he’s now a household name whose popularity engages with fans of all agesl V ALENTINO ROSSI IS A name synonymous with motorcycle racing - and anyone who witnessed the Rossimania at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed would have to agree that he is the biggest motorsport athlete on the planet right now - perhaps of all time! The Valentino Rossi legacy transcends the sport of motorcycling, and he’s now a household name whose popularity engages with fans of all ages. When Valentino descended upon Lord March’s estate for the Festival of Speed - an event which annually attracts the top names in F1 - the place became awash with a sea of yellow. As Valentino stood on the balcony overlooking the cheering crowd, it was clear Rossimania had arrived at Goodwood. Rossi created a distinct atmosphere at an event already jam-packed with legendary names. Valentino radiates personality and always seems at ease no matter the circumstances. He has a knack for making people comfortable around him; a unique trait that endears him to everyone he comes into contact with - either through the medium of television or should you be lucky enough to meet him in person. He has a deep-rooted passion for all motorsport, but bikes are his true love. Valentino flirted with the idea of racing F1, before deciding his future was on two wheels. He is an accomplished rally driver but for the time being the world of motorcycling is blessed by his presence. The question is: can he win a tenth world title? The MotoGP guys are currently on their summer break, with three weekends off the bike before the busy schedule resumes in Indianapolis in early August. Valentino currently heads the championship table at the halfway point; his consistency has been key, finishing on the podium in every race so far this year, notching up three wins from nine races. u £ Rossi puts the power down in Assen