Valentino Rossi announced his retirement from MotoGP after the 2021 season. (1:28).Valentino Rossi was one of motorcycling’s most charismatic and successful champions. He announced his retirement from MotoGP on Thursday, after nearly a quarter century of grand prix racing.The 42-year old Italian racer, who wears the number 46, has been crowned nine-times world champion. Seven of his titles were won in the top category.He said, "I decided that I would stop at the end the season," during a press conference which was arranged in advance of the Styrian Grand Prix at Austria’s Red Bull Ring."Unfortunately, this will be my last MotoGP season. It's hard, it's very sad because it's hard to say and to know that I won't be racing next year with the bike."I have done this job for more than 30 years. My life will be different next year. It was great. I enjoyed the long, difficult journey. It was also really, really enjoyable.Rossi will be riding for the Malaysia-based Petronas Yamaha Team this season, but his form is deteriorating. The veteran rider currently sits 19th in the championship, with a best finish only of 10th from nine races.The Italian is still a popular favourite and has global recognition.Rossi is the only rider who has won more than 400 races. He also has 89 wins in the top category, and 26 from the junior 125cc or 250cc classes.
