Valentino Rossi is facing trying moments in the 2007 MotoGP season but no one is prepared to write him off just yet.
Valentino Rossi is arguably the greatest motorcycle racer of all time with many experts considering him to be even better than the legendary Giacomo Agostini. At the age of only 28, he has already accumulated the all-time most number of podium finishes with 126, has 85 wins, 46 pole positions and 7 world titles. It’s a staggering record that is even more impressive considering that Rossi is still very much in his prime with many racing years left in him. In addition, Rossi’s move from Honda to Yamaha, a bike that has less power in a straight line, only solidified his greatness. Here is a guy who had the cunning and acumen to make the most out of his machinery despite racing against more powerful bikes. It was a testament to his technical prowess as well as his uncompromising will to win.
It seemed that there was nothing that could stop Valentino Rossi’s streak of titles. But in 2006, the dynasty ended. The first race saw Rossi victimized by an unfortunate mishap. Reliability issues that led to some retirements also hurt Rossi’s bid for an eighth title. Rossi fought back and even took the championship lead briefly. But a very rare mistake by the decorated Italian in the season ending race ultimately paved the way for a new world champion won by the American Nicky Hayden.
2007 was supposed to be the rebound year for Rossi. But as the season progressed, a new rival emerged in the form of Casey Stoner riding a Ducati. There is a clear advantage for Ducati in a straight line compared to the Yamaha of Rossi. Circuits in Qatar, Turkey and China highlighted the power advantage of the Ducati. But apart from the differences in the bikes, Stoner is also riding in his best form as he is almost faultless in the first eight rounds of the season. Catalunya and Donington showcased the stunning ride of Stoner.
Although Rossi displayed his undeniable brilliance in his victories in Jerez and Mugello, the Italian had his share of problems. A defective tire in Turkey forced Rossi to settle for tenth. Choosing the harder compound wet weather tire for the French Grand Prix in Le Mans also hindered Valentino from challenging for the win. This was due to the fact that the rain poured harder and hence suited the softer compound wet tire that his rivals put on. And in the last race in Donington, Rossi again faced tire issues as he had to nurse his wet tires in drying conditions. At the end of eight rounds, Rossi is behind Stoner by 26 points.
If ever, adversity can sum up the season for the Italian so far. But if history has proven one thing, the champion is always defined by how he conquers the trials in his life. Regardless of the odds, Rossi will always race to win. For one who relishes competition, trying moments only fuel the passion to excel even more. It is an uphill and no doubt grueling battle where Rossi is at the moment. But for any great icon, it is in the tough times that characterize a legend. And for one who is hailed as the greatest ever, it is only natural to expect him to fight back. Only a fool can write-off the multiple world champion.
Whether Rossi can pull off yet another championship remains to be seen. But in any case, the season is heating up to be a potential classic. Will the veteran make a comeback, or will a new champion emerge?
