Italian · Urbino, Italy · Born 16 February 1979Italian motorcycle racer widely regarded as one of the greatest MotoGP riders of all time, known for his charismatic personality and nine world titles.
Valentino Rossi was born in Urbino, Italy in 1979 and is the most decorated motorcycle racer in history. He won nine World Championships: one 125cc (1997), one 250cc (1999) and seven premier-class titles (500cc/MotoGP: 2001–2005, 2008, 2009). He won 115 premier-class races across 26 seasons. He raced for Honda (2000–2003), Yamaha (2004–2010, 2013–2020) and Ducati (2011–2012), winning championships with both Honda and Yamaha. His charisma, yellow helmet and distinctive celebrations made him the sport's first global superstar — particularly in Italy where he is a national hero. His rivalry with Jorge Lorenzo produced MotoGP's defining narratives of the 2010s. He created the VR46 academy which produced multiple MotoGP champions including Francesco Bagnaia. He retired in 2021 after finishing ninth overall in the MotoGP championship. He was awarded an honorary degree from the University of Urbino. The scale of his fan following and his nine world titles place him among the greatest motorsport champions of any category. Rossi's record of seven premier-class world titles was equalled by Marc Márquez in 2025, leaving Giacomo Agostini's eight as the only tally above them, while Rossi's 89 premier-class wins remained the all-time benchmark.
Nine-time motorcycle world champion and MotoGP legend
He is the most popular athlete in Italy — above all football players — according to multiple polls.
Did You Know?How They Played
Aggressive overtaker with exceptional racecraft and showmanship
Lasting Impact
Greatest motorcycle racer of all time with record 89 MotoGP wins
Career Honours
- MotoGP World Champion 9x
- All-time MotoGP Wins Leader (89)
Italian Athletes