Rossi's iconic '46' to be retired by MotoGP

MotoGP will retire Valentino Rossi's number 46 at Mugello

In November of last year, MotoGP superstar and legend, Valentino “The Doctor” Rossi, officially retired from motorcycle Grand Prix racing after 25 years, 9 world championships, 115 GP wins, and 235 podiums. He is also the only racer in history to win titles in the 125cc, 250cc, 500cc, and premiere class (MotoGP) categories.

This coming Saturday, May 28, 2022, at the Autodromo Internazionale del Mugello, MotoGP will officially retire the number 46.

The retirement ceremony will take place on the main straight of the racetrack, just ahead of qualifying. Rossi will be in attendance as his legacy is honored and his number retired, having raced the number 46 into the MotoGP Legends Hall of Fame over 26 seasons of success - creating one of the most recognizable calling cards in global sport.

Besides the number 46, The Doctor is also famous for flashing his signature “Vale Yellow” graphics since his minibike racing days.

According to Rossi’s helmet designer and longtime friend, Aldo Drudi, Rossi was inspired by Kevin Schwantz’s helmet that flaunted the fluorescent yellow livery during his races. Schwantz is one of the racers Rossi looked up to at the time.

Such a great tribute to a great rider who put MotoGP to where it is now.