Valentino Rossi Reveals Ferrari’s Reaction to ‘Joke’ F1 Test-Drive in 2004

Moto GP legend, Valentino Rossi mentioned in his exit interview, “Unfortunately this will be my last half-season as a MotoGP rider. And it’s difficult, it’s a very sad moment because it’s difficult to say it and know that next year I will not race with a motorcycle…” The open-ended announcement let fans speculate about the possibility of Rossi in F1. While that may be a long shot, Rossi reflected upon his time in an F1 car.

In 2004, The Doctor had a go in the Ferrari monocoque- “as a joke”. This ingrained a very ideal idea in the minds of the fans- one of Rossi in the red car. An irrefutable fact, the Italian states, “In reality I was born as a car driver.”

In 2004, when Valentino Rossi tested a Ferrari F1 car, he was just 0.7’s off Michael Schumacher’s pace.

What could have been?! pic.twitter.com/cjKJtvC74k

— ESPN F1 (@ESPNF1) August 5, 2021

While what could have been remains unknown, Rossi explained his experience in the Italian outfit. “I was looking for speed. And so when I tried it, I did it seriously, and it went well. Those of the Ferrari were open-mouthed.” 

What Rossi concludes as “a dream” his time at Ferrari would have only thwarted the pace of his career. ” I would not have immediately become a Red driver: I would have had to do my apprenticeship first, driving in the F1 junior teams. Then it would depend on the results.” 

Not ready to shift to the four-wheel machine, Rossi continued his career with his beloved motorcycles, making the legendary name he has today. Looking back, Rossi has no regrets. He simply remarks, ” Not bad. Since that 2006 I have done like another whole career.” [translated using Google Translate.]

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Valentino Rossi takes up a new role

Born a racer, Rossi is now looking forward to continuing the legacy. The legend recently announced that he is going to be a father, through witty pictures posted on his socials.

Dopo un attenta visita possiamo comunicarvi che la Franci è incinta!aspettiamo una bambina
After a careful visit we can tell you that Franci is pregnant!We are expecting for a girl pic.twitter.com/SkEysK7NUX

— Valentino Rossi (@ValeYellow46) August 18, 2021

The Doctor announced that he and his wife are expecting a baby girl. While this may be the new chapter Rossi hinted at, Rossi is far from done with his time on the fast lane. And now with racing in her veins, the future looks to make place for a Jr. Doctor.

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