EXCLUSIVE – Joan Mir: “I ended up in intensive care in 2019; we ought to have filmed a documentary about it!”

“Without a doubt, Toprak's performance was amazing.”

Joan Mir, who once competed against Toprak Razgatlioglu in the Red Bull Rookies series, holds a special admiration for Razgatlioglu's remarkable feat of clinching the WorldSBK championship last year after recovering from a significant lung injury.

In what is now a largely overlooked event in his career, future MotoGP champion Joan Mir ended up in the hospital following a major crash during testing at Brno in August 2019, during his debut season in the premier class.

Due to a technical malfunction, Mir lost control of his Suzuki at a speed of 300km/h as he approached Turn 1. This led to an accident where his GSX-RR motorcycle was thrown over the barriers beside the track, prompting ambulances to hurry to Mir's aid.

Mir was transported by helicopter to a nearby medical facility where doctors identified a 'pulmonary contusion' affecting his lungs. Once back in Spain, he was immediately taken to a hospital in Barcelona for additional care.

In an interview with Crash.net, Mir, who currently rides for Honda's factory team, recalled his time in the ICU. He mentioned that it took him a week before he could start standing again.

"The issue was that we didn't produce much media content, and the cameras failed to capture the actual events."

"We didn't create a documentary, but that doesn't imply it was easy!" he said with a grin.

Following his absence from two races, Mir made his comeback to the MotoGP circuit and subsequently achieved his top performance of his debut season by finishing in fifth place at the Phillip Island event.

However, recovering from the injury was a lengthy process, both in terms of physical and mental healing.

"It was extremely difficult," he went on to say. "I became very weak since spending one or two weeks in the hospital makes you inactive and causes weight loss."

"The mechanical issue that caused my accident made it extremely difficult for me to start riding the bike again."

"You need to regain confidence in the bicycle, which posed a significant challenge."

"Two months later, there remained traces of blood."

"Even after two months, traces of blood and air bubbles could still be found in the lungs."

"It was difficult. An extremely bad accident, possibly one of the worst I've witnessed."

"We ought to have filmed a documentary to capture everything, but while experiencing it, events unfolded too quickly."

"You only understand how challenging it was when you reflect on it afterward."

In the following season, Mir claimed the title of MotoGP champion for 2020.

"That's amazing, especially after a year," he said with a smile.

Razgatlioglu's accomplishment last year was also described as 'fantastic.'

The Turkish athlete was on track to secure BMW's inaugural WorldSBK title when a severe crash with a barrier at Magny-Cours resulted in a collapsed lung. This incident halted his 13-race winning streak and sidelined him for two rounds.

Nevertheless, Razgatlioglu came back to secure the championship.

"Without a doubt, what Toprak achieved was remarkable, especially winning the title despite the additional challenges," Mir commented.

"I want to extend my congratulations to him. He truly was the top performer in the previous season."

"I’m really pleased for him. We've been acquainted since our days in the Rookies Cup back in 2014, and he's a good person."

Current MotoGP titleholder Jorge Martin clinched victory in the 2014 Rookies Cup, outperforming Mir, while Razgatlioglu secured a race win, ultimately finishing in sixth place.

In 2015, Martin became a competitor in the Moto3 world championship, while Mir secured victories in the CEV Junior series and made his first appearance in a Grand Prix event as a wild-card entry.

In the meantime, Razgatlioglu embarked on an alternate journey that ultimately resulted in winning two World Superbike titles, starting with his victory in the European Superstock 600 Championship.

Razgatlioglu's name keeps coming up in discussions about MotoGP, and if BMW decides to enter the top-tier category, he might have the chance to compete alongside Martin and Mir once more.

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For two decades, Peter has been a regular presence in the paddock, witnessing Valentino Rossi's entire career span from start to finish. He is currently leading the coverage of Suzuki's departure and Marc Marquez's struggles with injuries.

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Surprising Formula 1 Partner Believed to Aid Lewis Hamilton in MotoGP Investment

New Development in Lewis Hamilton's Alleged MotoGP Fascination

Alessandro Alunni Bravi, who is departing from his roles at the Sauber Formula 1 team, is reportedly connected to Lewis Hamilton's efforts to acquire a stake in a MotoGP team.

For nearly a year, rumors have circulated about Hamilton considering an investment in a MotoGP team, following the purchase of Dorna Sports by Liberty Media, the company that owns Formula 1, last spring.

Despite circulating speculations about a takeover of Gresini being unfounded, ex-Liberty CEO Greg Maffei disclosed that Hamilton had made contact, showing a desire to participate in a MotoGP team's operations following a change in its ownership.

In an interview with Speedweek in December, KTM's head of motorsport, Pit Beirer, disclosed that serious discussions had taken place with Hamilton’s management team regarding a potential investment in the financially troubled Austrian racing team.

Currently, KTM is grappling with economic difficulties and its continued participation in MotoGP is in doubt. Meanwhile, the speculation regarding Hamilton's association with the team has recently diminished.

The future involvement of the seven-time Formula 1 world champion in MotoGP is currently uncertain, but according to Gazzetta dello Sport, assistance from Alessandro Alunni Bravi might enhance his prospects of participation.

Alunni Bravi has declared his departure from his position at the Sauber F1 team, where he has served in different capacities for seven years with the Swiss team.

His path ahead remains uncertain as he tackles fresh obstacles after his tenure at Sauber.

There are no evident connections between him and either Hamilton or MotoGP, making it unclear how he might be involved in Hamilton's potential investment in a team.

Nonetheless, Hamilton's aspirations to invest in a MotoGP team will be paused until the completion of an EU investigation into Liberty Media's purchase of the series.

Liberty and Dorna were optimistic that their €4.2 billion agreement would be finalized by the conclusion of the previous year. However, due to concerns over a potential monopoly in TV broadcasting rights, the European Commission's anti-trust panel has decided to conduct a more in-depth investigation.

Currently, Liberty Media is the owner of Formula 1, Formula 2, and Formula 3, whereas a related company holds ownership of Formula E. If Liberty Media successfully acquires Dorna, it would gain ownership of MotoGP and World Superbikes, in addition to any championships affiliated with Dorna.

The investigation by the EU might postpone the takeover until May, pending regulatory consent.

Hamilton, now part of Ferrari's lineup, previously expanded his investment in sports by acquiring a stake in the Denver Broncos NFL franchise a couple of years back.

He was also the owner of a squad in the Extreme E series, a competition for electric off-road sport utility vehicles.

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Honda Eager for Immediate Action in MotoGP

Alberto Puig, the head of Honda's racing team, indicates that the company is not solely relying on the anticipated rule changes set for 2027.

Alberto Puig, the head of the Factory Honda MotoGP team, has expressed that the company "cannot afford to wait until 2027" to enhance the performance of its RC213V bike following a series of challenging seasons.

Honda is currently experiencing one of its most challenging periods in its grand prix history, enduring three seasons without a victory in the past five years.

In the 2024 season, the team ended up at the bottom of the constructors' rankings, accumulating a mere 75 points. LCR's Johann Zarco was their leading rider, finishing in 17th place in the standings.

A significant rule modification is anticipated in 2027 with the introduction of 850cc engines, and many believe that Honda might consider dedicating all its resources to this new project due to its ongoing challenges.

However, in a conversation with Autosport, Puig mentions that Honda currently does not have this option available.

In response to a question regarding the regulations set for 2027, he commented that brands will consistently seek methods to enhance the speed of bikes.

"Even with less regulation and fewer gadgets, it's still challenging to address this issue at the moment. However, Honda cannot afford to delay any action until 2027, which is why I need to consider the plans for the upcoming year."

In recent months, Honda has undergone significant changes in its staff, most prominently appointing Romano Albesiano, the former technical leader at Aprilia, to oversee motorcycle development.

Regarding this matter, Puig stated, "Our current plan solely focuses on enhancing the motorcycle."

"This marks the beginning. To accomplish this, Honda is dedicating all available resources and technology."

"I am referring to both monetary assets and personnel."

"We opted to bring Romano on board. Our primary goal is to enhance the bicycle."

"There isn't a precise strategy in place; instead, we're taking it one day at a time and putting in our best effort because we recognize that we aren't performing at the level we ought to be."

In the past few years, Honda's MotoGP and Formula 1 initiatives have been unified under the HRC label. According to Puig, the motorcycle division is attempting to benefit from this arrangement.

He stated, "I believe it's crucial to make one thing clear: while Honda is achieving success in Formula 1, it's important to remember that a car and a motorcycle are distinct vehicles."

Honda provides the engines, while Red Bull boasts an exceptional team responsible for designing the car.

"In our situation, Honda is responsible for the complete motorcycle. It's a distinct approach, yet both operate within the HRC framework."

"We are attempting to utilize the resources available from Formula 1. We have just begun efforts to establish this connection."

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Pecco Bagnaia and Marc Marquez have shared their thoughts on the intense battle for the championship, emphasizing the pressure that comes with racing for a top team. They remarked, "Competing for the title is crucial. Otherwise, another rider might claim your spot on the team!"

Historically, Marc Marquez would introduce new MotoGP teammates at Repsol Honda by emphasizing that victory was a requirement.

Following Jorge Lorenzo's addition to the squad, which was highly anticipated as a 'dream team' for the 2019 season, Marquez clarified, "A true dream team is defined by winning the triple crown."

During Marquez's latest Honda team introduction, where he was joined by a new teammate and past champion, Joan Mir, Marquez remarked:

"We both have to secure victories – wearing these colors means it's essential."

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In a twist of fate, Marquez is now the latest addition to the Ducati Lenovo "dream team," where he will join forces with multiple-time champion Francesco Bagnaia for the 2025 season.

During the team's launch event on Monday, when Bagnaia was asked about the chances of having a title showdown with Marquez, the Spaniard was able to complete the thought for him.

Bagnaia started by saying, "Putting on the red leathers means you must – and he [Marquez] is aware that this season…"

With a playful grin, Marquez interjected, "You've got to compete for the title! Otherwise, someone else will end up with your motorcycle!"

In further elaboration, two-time champion Bagnaia—who came close to clinching a third title but was edged out by Jorge Martin last season—concurred that Marquez would be his 'principal rival,' though he left open the possibility of an unexpected challenge.

"Each season, it's hard to predict which team will be the main competitor."

"Based on the bike's capabilities and last year's observations, I believe Marc will be one of the toughest competitors and the primary challenger."

"He now has an additional year of experience with our motorcycle. The updated model will definitely be a better fit for him, as it is an enhancement over the one he rode last season."

"He had been performing exceptionally well the previous year, securing several podium finishes and winning three races."

"In my opinion, he is likely to be the leading competitor, and we'll need to observe throughout the season to identify the other challengers."

"There might be another person involved. However, I believe the primary individuals are the two of us."

Marquez stated that his primary goal is to secure a spot among the top three in the championship standings. Although he recognizes the importance of competing for the title while representing the factory team, he says he would be content with replicating last year's accomplishment of finishing in the top three of the world championship.

Marquez remarked that his teammate has consistently secured either first or second place over the past four years, showcasing exceptional strength. He added that it is typical for his teammate to lead, particularly in the initial races.

"He secured victories in eleven races. While he did make a few errors, it's important to note that taking risks is essential for achieving such success. Ultimately, it's all about finding a balance."

"However, as mentioned earlier, I plan to gain insights from him and figure out how to reach my optimal performance with my riding technique within the Ducati Lenovo team. Once that's accomplished, we'll assess the situation."

Aiming to finish in the top three by the end of the championship is our primary goal. While winning the title remains a focus, securing a spot in the top three is the main objective.

Marquez, a six-time premier-class champion between 2013 and 2019, stated:

The team's goal is to strive for victory. If Pecco can't secure the win, I'll aim for it. Conversely, if I'm unable to win, Pecco will make the attempt.

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For two decades, Peter has been present in the paddock and has witnessed the career of Valentino Rossi from beginning to end. He is also deeply involved in the narrative surrounding Suzuki's departure and Marc Marquez's struggles with injuries.

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MotoAmerica sensation shares hospital update following a severe and unusual face-plant accident

Former Moto2 competitor and current MotoAmerica Superbike competitor, Sean Dylan Kelly, is receiving medical care following a training mishap.

Sean Dylan Kelly, previously competing in Moto2 and a victor in the MotoAmerica Superbike series, has been taken to the hospital following an accident while training.

Kelly, who secured his inaugural MotoAmerica Superbike victory at the Circuit of the Americas the previous year as a member of the TopPro BMW squad, encountered an accident last Thursday while operating his supermoto motorcycle.

The individual from America was fitted with a cervical collar and transported to a medical facility, and disclosed the following information through a post on Instagram on Sunday (19 January).

"Last Thursday, I experienced a bizarre and significant wipeout on my supermoto, leaving me quite bewildered."

"Fortunately, I was surrounded by incredible individuals, which ensured that everything unfolded for me gradually yet steadily."

"I'm feeling fine, but I'll have to keep things low-key for a bit longer. It's time to shift my attention elsewhere; I believe I've done plenty of biking for now."

Following his championship victory in the 2021 MotoAmerica Supersport division, Kelly advanced to Moto2 in 2022, where his top performance was an 11th place finish at that year's Thai Grand Prix.

A mishap mid-2023 resulted in his absence from four consecutive races, ultimately causing his premature exit from the American Racing squad, the team he had entered the Grand Prix circuit with.

Kelly made a comeback with the Forward team during the San Marino Grand Prix, but only managed to secure a single point (achieved in Indonesia) in the subsequent races of 2023. Following this, he went back to the US in 2024 to join the previously mentioned TopPro BMW team, where he achieved a fourth-place finish in the Superbike category.

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In August 2024, Alex became a part of the Crash.net crew after spending two years at Visordown, where he focused on reporting about consumer motorcycles and racing news.

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Valentino Rossi, a renowned figure in MotoGP, is set to participate in the 2025 Bathurst 12 Hour. The celebrated racer is making a comeback

The WRT BMW team has revealed that MotoGP icon Valentino Rossi will include the Bathurst 12 Hour in his car racing schedule for 2025.

Earlier this month, Rossi announced that he would concentrate his factory BMW efforts on the LMGT3 category within the World Endurance Championship.

In the previous year, he participated in both the WEC and the GT World Challenge Europe with WRT. However, he found the number of events overwhelming due to his family obligations and his intention to focus more on MotoGP this season.

Explore further: Valentino Rossi's pursuit of his elusive tenth world championship

Last year, Rossi mentioned his plans to compete in the Bathurst 12 Hour endurance race, a segment of the Intercontinental GT Challenge, although no official confirmation had been made.

WRT has officially announced that Rossi will be participating in the event once again, driving a BMW M4 GT3 EVO. He will team up with Raffaele Marciello and Charles Weertz.

Rossi participated in the event with WRT during the years 2023 and 2024, achieving his highest finish of fifth place overall the previous year while driving a BMW alongside Marciello and Maxime Martin.

In a unique conversation with Crash.net, Vincent Vosse, the head of the WRT team, mentioned that they are in talks with Rossi about participating in some GT races apart from the eight events scheduled in the WEC calendar.

"He mentioned that while there are certain plans and ideas in place, they have not been finalized yet."

"Naturally, there are certain races he particularly enjoys. He really looks forward to participating in those weekends."

Last year, Rossi entered the WEC for the first time and successfully secured two podium finishes while driving the #46 car alongside Martin and Ahmad Al Harthy.

In 2025, he will join Al Harthy again, with Kelvin van der Linde, a two-time Nurburgring 24 Hours champion, stepping in to take Martin's place in the team.

When asked about Rossi's decision to prioritize the World Endurance Championship instead of the GT World Challenge Europe, Vosse explained to Crash that the choice was influenced by a combination of factors, including Rossi's age, his personal and professional circumstances, and the expansion of VR46, his company and MotoGP team.

This year, the team might require some extra focus since they are introducing a new rider, Franco Morbidelli, and are embarking on what could be considered a new chapter in their journey.

"Vale has recently welcomed his second child, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his life."

"It's likely that he thinks he might have overcommitted to too many racing weekends last year."

"He aimed to cut down on the number of weekends, so we needed to determine the best course of action for him."

"After talking it over with him, we concluded that the World Endurance Championship would be an excellent opportunity for him."

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Marc Marquez: Ignoring Ducati's competitors creates a "risky situation"

"We view the other manufacturers as being equally competitive."

Francesco Bagnia and Marc Marquez, the leading figures from Ducati Lenovo, have cautioned against taking their rivals lightly in 2025.

Among the competitors in MotoGP, Bagnaia and his new team-mate Marquez stand out as the sole riders with multiple championships, boasting a combined total of eight premier-class titles. These two racers are now the central figures for a manufacturer that experienced defeat in just one grand prix last year.

All attention is focused on the showdown between Bagnaia and Marquez for the championship crown, a situation both riders recognize as anticipated.

Fabio di Giannantonio from VR46 will be the sole rider handling a factory-spec Desmosedici.

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Three ex-Ducati riders, among them the current champion Jorge Martin, have departed to bolster the rosters of European competitors Aprilia and KTM.

Newcomer Pedro Acosta now brings a year's worth of experience to the table, and Pramac has transitioned to Yamaha, which decreases the number of Ducati bikes from eight to six.

Bagnaia expressed that with one fewer team representing Ducati, achieving podium lockouts like last year will be more challenging. He noted that KTM riders, particularly Acosta, are highly competitive. However, he emphasized the need to evaluate the current circumstances.

At this moment, it's hard to predict. Aprilia has secured the world champion and also Bezzecchi, introducing two fresh riders. Bezzecchi is eager to surpass his performance from the previous year, while Jorge is determined to keep his #1 status. Therefore, I believe Aprilia will be a strong contender.

"Honda and Yamaha are not easy to understand. However, Yamaha seemed to have made progress toward the end of last year, as they were more competitive in the final races. Therefore, I believe they will continue to make advancements."

"I believe it will be challenging for Honda to maintain their current circumstances, so I anticipate that they will also make some progress."

"The primary contenders right now are Ducati, Aprilia, and KTM. We'll have to wait and see what happens."

Marquez cautioned against the assumption that Ducati would clinch the championship, pointing out that Andrea Dovizioso had risen from a fifth-place finish in 2016 to challenge the Repsol Honda rider for the championship title in the subsequent year.

"The eight-time world champion expressed that it could be risky to assume Ducati will secure the championship."

"However, as a group, we regard the other producers as being on an equal footing with us."

"Being part of MotoGP, we are aware that, for instance, Yamaha made some progress last year. However, they could come to Malaysia with a new motorcycle, especially since they have the highly talented Quartararo as their rider."

"KTM is in a similar situation. Aprilia and Honda too… We're all in MotoGP."

"In 2017, during my competition with Dovizioso, I realized the importance of being cautious of all competitors, as circumstances can shift significantly from one year to the next."

Last year, Ducati dominated the leaderboard, securing the first four positions with riders Martin, Bagnaia, Marquez, and Enea Bastianini. Meanwhile, Brad Binder and Pedro Acosta from KTM, along with Aprilia's Maverick Vinales, were the top performers among the other competitors.

Among the top seven, just Bagnaia and Marquez are set to compete for Ducati in the 2025 season.

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Exclusive Insight: A Close Look at Valentino Rossi's Pursuit of His Elusive 10th World Championship

Lewis Duncan of Crash.net engages in a detailed conversation with WRT chief Vincent Vosse regarding Valentino Rossi's journey in motorsport and the anticipations for the year 2025.

Valentino Rossi is set to kick off his participation in the 2025 World Endurance Championship with the WRT team, taking on the role of a factory BMW driver in the LMGT3 category shortly after celebrating his 46th birthday. This season is particularly notable as it comes ten years after Rossi was on the cusp of securing a world championship, barely losing out on the 2015 MotoGP title to his Yamaha colleague, Jorge Lorenzo.

This year signifies Rossi's fourth season as a professional car racing driver, transitioning from motorcycle racing to automobile racing after retiring from MotoGP in late 2021. He joined forces with the WRT team, led by Vincent Vosse, for his initial foray into GT Racing.

Rossi's racing career began on a strong note in 2022, achieving several finishes within the top six in both the Endurance and Sprint Cups of the GT World Challenge Europe, driving an Audi R8. Transitioning to BMW equipment with the WRT team in 2023, Rossi secured his first podium finish by coming in second place during the inaugural Sprint Cup race at Brands Hatch.

At his favorite circuit, Misano, a place where his VR46 Academy frequently practices and where he has achieved three MotoGP victories, he claimed victory on the podium together with Maxime Martin, who has triumphed at Le Mans. The duo replicated their success at Misano in the previous year.

In 2024, Rossi made a comeback to international racing, participating in the World Endurance Championship (WEC) as a driver classified under the FIA silver category. This was a step down from his previous gold status, a change made to comply with the competition's classification requirements. He joined the WRT team, competing in the newly introduced

In collaboration with Martin and Ahmad Al Harthy, the team drove their #46 BMW M4 GT3 to a fourth-place finish in the season opener in Qatar, then secured a second-place finish in a WRT team one-two finish at Imola, a race affected by rain. Unfortunately, they did not finish at Spa and Le Mans due to back-to-back DNFs, and faced additional problems that affected their performance at COTA and Bahrain. The team achieved another podium finish for the season at Fuji, where the #46 car came in third. Rossi concluded the season ranked sixth in the overall standings.

To begin with, Vale competed in the GT World Challenge, specifically in the professional class, securing victories at Misano, according to WRT leader Vosse in a special conversation with Crash.net. Additionally, he achieved podium finishes in several races, contending in the professional class, which, in Vosse's view, was already an impressive feat. In the World Endurance Championship, he's performing remarkably well, holding a silver status as he embarks on his fourth season.

"Reflecting on the previous season in the World Endurance Championship, it was a challenging time, not because of Valentino but due to the overall performance in the LMGT3 category. Our victories at Imola, where we finished first and second, were largely attributed to unique circumstances. However, Valentino, as an athlete, embodies true professionalism and dedication in any endeavor he undertakes. He approaches racing not merely for the joy of it but with a serious and focused attitude."

"He's driven by competition, which fuels his passion. It's the realization that he can hold his own against others that truly excites him. Winning isn't just about the victory for him; it's about proving he can match his peers' prowess. Approaching his 46th birthday, this drive is noteworthy. While other athletes might pursue new challenges for fun or to experience something new, he commits fully with the aim to excel. It's this dedication to competitiveness that distinguishes the true legends. And indeed, he is one of those legends."

Rossi's illustrious career has elevated him to the status of a motorsport icon, leaving him with nothing more to demonstrate. He has always approached challenges with full commitment, never settling for half measures. This was evident even during his trials with Ferrari's Formula 1 cars in the mid-2000s, which he undertook considering a possible move to the series.

In the previous year, Rossi undertook simultaneous efforts in the World Endurance Championship and the GT World Challenge Europe. Currently a dad to two kids and eager to increase his participation in MotoGP by 2025, Rossi encountered a tough decision during the offseason regarding his plans for the current year. Just a few days ago, WRT revealed that he has decided to concentrate on the World Endurance Championship this season.

Vosse mentioned that choosing WEC instead of GTWCE was based on the belief that it would serve as an excellent platform for him. Additionally, Vosse revealed to Crash that conversations are ongoing with Rossi regarding his participation in several GT endurance races that the Italian continues to enjoy, beyond WEC. A conclusion on this matter is anticipated in the next few weeks.

WRT has revamped the driver roster for its #46 vehicle in the WEC's LMGT3 division. Kelvin van der Linde, a seasoned GT competitor with victories at the Nurburgring 24 Hours and a second-place finish in the 2024 DTM, steps in for Martin.

From an external perspective, it might seem like WRT is heavily investing in the #31 car. For the 2025 season, they've enlisted the talents of factory BMW star Augusto Farfus, Timur Boguslavskiy, and Le Mans champion Yasser Shahin, who is making the switch from Porsche, to spearhead their campaign. However, Vosse doesn't view it in that light.

"He emphasized that their participation in championships was never just about showing up; it was about competing at a high level. He highlighted that the previous year, both of their vehicles demonstrated the capability to not only win races but also contend for championships. Contrary to what many might have expected, it was car #31, not the anticipated #46, that emerged prominently, which he found personally satisfying. With two vehicles in the competition, including one driven by Vale, he mentioned the prospect of Vale securing his tenth world title as an exciting possibility, noting it would bring him immense personal joy. However, he stressed that their primary focus remains on ensuring both cars are performing competitively, not just one."

In November of the previous year, Rossi participated in the WEC newcomer trial in Bahrain, taking the wheel of a BMW M8 Hybrid LMDh vehicle, a contender in the premier Hypercar category of the series. True to Rossi's characteristic style, this endeavor wasn't just a simple whim.

Might this evolve into something greater down the line?

Vosse states, "Vale is determined to compete, regardless of whether it's in Hypercar or GT – his goal is to win. Entering the Hypercar category at this point means we're at a disadvantage and need to work hard to catch up. During the Bahrain test, it was clear Vale was exceptionally fast – he exceeded expectations."

"It perfectly matched his requirement for speed. His excitement was evident, and the grin he wore as he exited the car resembled that of a victor in a race, simply because he was in contention. He found himself precisely in the position he aspires to be, at the pinnacle, and for an athlete of his caliber, not finding his name at the top is a tough pill to swallow."

The idea of Valentino Rossi racing in a prototype sportscar at Le Mans is incredibly exciting, and it's hard to imagine the World Endurance Championship (WEC) not being thrilled about it. The championship has seen many prominent drivers participate in its events. However, the level of fan enthusiasm Rossi brings is unparalleled, as Vosse experienced in the GT World Challenge Europe (GTWCE) some time ago.

"He confesses that their initial race as a team, which took place at Imola in 2022, turned out to be a disaster. He hadn't anticipated such a scenario in a competition that typically wouldn't attract the massive following of Rossi enthusiasts. However, he realized that Rossi's supporters are not just admirers of MotoGP; they are loyal followers of Vale, ready to support him in any event he participates in."

"Certainly, after the initial race, adjustments were necessary. We found ourselves tweaking several aspects and ensuring we were meticulously coordinated to accommodate our fans. This isn't something you observe elsewhere. In the World Endurance Championship (WEC), figures like Fernando Alonso, Jenson Button, or Robert Kubica stand out as prominent figures, yet they don't quite reach the fan base magnitude associated with Vale."

Despite Rossi reducing his racing engagements in 2025, he remains undeterred and is actively preparing for another attempt at the WEC. Securing a tenth championship (referred to as the FIA Endurance Trophy for LMGT3 Drivers in the WEC) is certainly no easy feat, yet Rossi has consistently demonstrated that he is fully capable of meeting the challenge.

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Marc Marquez remains tight-lipped following Ducati's announcement

Podcast hosts respond to Ducati's 2025 reveal

The Ducati team presented their 2025 MotoGP colors during a ceremony in Italy, featuring Marc Marquez and Francesco Bagnaia.

As the new season approaches, Ducati aims to solidify its leading position after clinching victories in 19 out of 20 Grand Prix races last year, securing both the riders’ and constructors’ championships, along with the teams’ championship through Pramac.

In its official team, Ducati has created a powerful duo for its MotoGP efforts by teaming up two-time world champion Francesco Bagnaia with Marc Marquez, who has clinched the premier class championship six times.

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Despite the friendly atmosphere during the launch, there's a prevailing feeling that conflicts are bound to arise between the two eventually.

"Predicting their desired outcomes and what will actually unfold is a challenge for Ducati," noted Jordan Moreland, the Social Media Manager and podcast host at Crash.net.

"Marquez has a way of holding his secrets tight once more."

"He didn't reveal much. During his interaction with the media, they questioned him if this was the most significant year of his career to date. His response was dismissive, stating that 2024 was more important due to it being his comeback year."

"It's apparent he's fully prepared for this challenge, given his comments about focusing on the championship from the very first round, something he hasn't really mentioned since 2020. This version of Marquez seems to be a return to his former approach, at least that's the impression I'm getting."

Lewis Duncan, the seasoned journalist from Crash, reiterated Moreland's sentiments, stating, "This marks the initial occasion we've heard Marc express considerations about the championship since his contract with the factory Ducati team began. Until now, his focus was on enhancing the team's performance and positioning, with Pecco being viewed as the primary contender and the benchmark."

"For the first time, it has been publicly stated, with Pecco Bagnaia also in close proximity, that the goal is to contend for the world title starting from the inaugural race."

"It's intriguing. We're gradually beginning to notice that change from Marc."

"He's spent a year racing with Gresini, clinching victories and returning to his prime form. He came close to overtaking Bagnaia at Jerez, despite riding a less competitive Ducati."

"I believe this is the moment when their conflicts will become more highlighted throughout this year."

In the 2025 season storyline, a key narrative could revolve around the extent to which Valentino Rossi, Marquez's main adversary, plays a role behind the scenes in the championship contest between the two Ducati racers.

Rossi expressed disapproval regarding Ducati's move to elevate Marquez the previous year, sparking a rivalry that neither Marquez nor Bagnaia have seemed keen to engage with at this point.

Peter McLaren, editor at Crash MotoGP, believes, “Marquez often appears to brush off criticism or comments. When questioned about the interview and remarks, he merely chuckled, showing no significant reaction.”

"He stays out of it. The situation surrounding their statements, should they be made public, might lead Marquez to interpret it as Rossi expressing concern over Bagnaia, reasoning that as the motive behind his remarks."

For Marquez, such remarks could serve as an encouragement, as if to say, 'their comments stem from their fear of competing against me'. It might also position Pecco more favorably if he manages to keep a distance from the situation for as long as possible. Pecco is known for letting his performance on the track do the speaking for him. Therefore, should this issue arise, it's likely to introduce an extra layer to the dynamic.

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MotoAmerica standout shares hospital update following unusual face-plant accident

Former Moto2 competitor and current MotoAmerica Superbike racer Sean Dylan Kelly is hospitalized after a training crash.

Sean Dylan Kelly, who previously competed in Moto2 and has achieved victory in MotoAmerica Superbike races, is currently in the hospital following an accident that occurred while he was training.

Last year, Kelly secured his inaugural victory in a MotoAmerica Superbike race at the Circuit of the Americas, competing for the TopPro BMW team. Unfortunately, last Thursday, he was involved in a crash while riding his supermoto bike.

The American was fitted with a neck brace and transported to the hospital, later providing an update through an Instagram post on Sunday, January 19.

"On Thursday, I experienced a significant and unusual crash while riding my supermoto, which left me quite disoriented."

"Fortunately, I was surrounded by incredible individuals who helped things gradually fall into place for me."

"I'm feeling fine, but I'll have to relax for a few more days. It's probably time to concentrate on different activities since I've been riding quite a lot."

In 2022, Kelly transitioned to Moto2 after winning the MotoAmerica Supersport championship in 2021. His peak performance that year was securing 11th place at the Thai Grand Prix.

In mid-2023, he suffered an injury that caused him to miss four consecutive races, ultimately resulting in his mid-season exit from the American Racing team, with which he had entered the Grand Prix paddock.

At the San Marino Grand Prix, Kelly rejoined the Forward team, but throughout the rest of the 2023 season, he managed to earn just a single point at the race in Indonesia. In 2024, he went back to the United States to compete with the TopPro BMW team, where he secured a fourth-place finish in the Superbike category.

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In August 2024, Alex became a member of the Crash.net team after spending two years reporting on motorcycle consumer and racing news at Visordown.

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Unforeseen Support from F1 Could Assist Lewis Hamilton in MotoGP Investment

New Development in Lewis Hamilton's Alleged MotoGP Interest

Alessandro Alunni Bravi, who is stepping down from his role as managing director and spokesperson for the Sauber Formula 1 team, is reportedly connected to Lewis Hamilton's efforts to put money into a MotoGP team.

For nearly a year, there have been rumors about Hamilton possibly investing in a MotoGP team following Liberty Media, the owner of Formula 1, purchasing Dorna Sports last spring.

Despite the rumors about a potential Gresini acquisition being false, ex-Liberty CEO Greg Maffei verified that Hamilton had shown interest in joining a MotoGP team following its recent change in ownership.

In an interview with Speedweek that took place in December, Pit Beirer, the head of KTM motorsport, disclosed that substantial discussions had occurred with Lewis Hamilton's management regarding the possibility of him investing in the financially struggling Austrian racing team.

KTM is presently experiencing financial difficulties and its future in MotoGP is uncertain. Meanwhile, recent discussions about Hamilton possibly joining the team have subsided.

The future actions of the seven-time Formula 1 world champion regarding his potential involvement in MotoGP are still uncertain. However, Gazzetta dello Sport suggests that his ambitions might receive a boost with assistance from Alessandro Alunni Bravi.

Alunni Bravi has revealed that he will be stepping down from his position with the Sauber F1 team after dedicating seven years to the Swiss organization in multiple capacities.

After his stint with Sauber, his path forward is uncertain as he takes on fresh challenges.

He lacks any obvious connection to Hamilton or MotoGP, making it unclear how he might be involved if Hamilton decides to invest in a team.

Hamilton's plans to invest in a MotoGP team are paused as they await the outcome of an EU investigation into Liberty Media's purchase of the series.

Despite Liberty and Dorna's earlier optimism about finalizing their €4.2 billion agreement by the end of last year, the European Commission's anti-competition board decided to investigate the deal further due to concerns it might create a monopoly over television broadcasting rights.

Liberty is the current owner of F1, as well as Formula 2 and Formula 3, with an affiliated company holding Formula E. If Liberty successfully acquires Dorna, it would gain ownership of the rights to MotoGP, World Superbikes, and all other championships linked with Dorna.

The European Union's investigation might postpone the completion of the acquisition until May, assuming it receives regulatory approval.

This season, Hamilton has become part of the Ferrari team. He previously expanded his interests in the sports world by acquiring a stake in the NFL's Denver Broncos in North America several years back.

He was also the proprietor of a team that participated in the Extreme E off-road racing series for electric sport utility vehicles.

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Exclusive: Valentino Rossi's Pursuit of His Coveted 10th World Championship

Crash.net's Lewis Duncan interviews WRT team leader Vincent Vosse regarding Valentino Rossi's journey in car racing up to now and the prospects for 2025.

Just after turning 46, Valentino Rossi is set to kick off the 2025 World Endurance Championship as an official BMW driver for WRT in the LMGT3 category. This year also signifies ten years since he almost claimed a world championship title, falling short of the 2015 MotoGP championship to his Yamaha teammate, Jorge Lorenzo.

The current year signifies the fourth year that Rossi has dedicated himself to being a full-time car racer. He transitioned from motorcycle racing to car racing upon retiring from MotoGP at the conclusion of 2021. Rossi joined forces with the WRT team, led by Vincent Vosse, for his inaugural season in GT Racing.

In 2022, Rossi had a promising beginning with several top-six finishes in both the Endurance and Sprint Cups of the GT World Challenge Europe, driving an Audi R8. In 2023, Rossi transitioned to driving a BMW for WRT, achieving his first podium finish by securing second place at the opening round of the Sprint Cup at Brands Hatch.

At his cherished Misano circuit, where the VR46 Academy regularly practices and where he has triumphed three times in MotoGP, he once again claimed victory on the podium, this time with his Le Mans-winning co-driver, Maxime Martin. The duo also secured a win at Misano the previous year.

In 2024, Rossi made a comeback to the world championship scene in the World Endurance Championship (WEC). He participated as an FIA silver-level driver, having been reclassified from gold to meet the series' status regulations, and joined WRT in the newly introduced LMGT3 category for GT vehicles.

Teaming up with Martin and Ahmad Al Harthy, the three drivers took their #46 BMW M4 GT3 to a fourth-place finish at the opening race in Qatar. They then secured a second-place finish, part of a WRT 1-2, at the next event in Imola, which was affected by rainy conditions. Unfortunately, they faced consecutive retirements at Spa and Le Mans, and more problems prevented strong performances at COTA and Bahrain. The team achieved their second podium of the season with a third-place finish at Fuji. Rossi concluded the season in sixth place overall in the standings.

"Initially, Vale competed in the GT World Challenge within the pro category and achieved victories at Misano," WRT team principal Vosse revealed in an exclusive conversation with Crash.net. He also mentioned that Vale stood on the podium in several races, contending fiercely in the pro category, which Vosse described as quite remarkable. In the World Endurance Championship (WEC), Vale is performing exceptionally well as a silver-ranked driver, now entering his fourth season.

"Reflecting on last year's WEC season, it was challenging overall, particularly in the LMGT3 category, though this wasn't related to Vale. The season was tough, and our only victory at Imola, where we secured first and second, was under unique circumstances. Vale, as a driver and athlete, approaches everything he does with the right attitude and seriousness. He doesn't participate in races merely for enjoyment or to casually drive around the track."

"He does it to stay competitive, and that's what keeps him motivated. It's in those moments when he realizes he can compete at a high level that he feels most alive. The happiness he experiences when winning a race isn't just about the victory itself; it's about matching the competitiveness of his peers. As he approaches his 46th birthday, it becomes clear that when athletes like him decide to pursue something, they commit fully. They don't do it just for fun or to try something new, but to excel and remain competitive. This dedication is what sets great champions apart, and he truly is one of them."

Rossi has already solidified his status as a motorsport legend, with nothing more to demonstrate in his illustrious career. However, he has never been one to do things partially or without full commitment. Even when he tested Ferrari's Formula 1 cars in the mid-2000s, he approached it with a serious consideration of possibly joining the series.

In the previous year, Rossi participated in both the WEC and the GT World Challenge Europe competitions. With two children now and a strong desire to return to MotoGP in 2025, Rossi was confronted with a tough decision during the winter regarding his plans for this year. This week, WRT revealed that his attention will be directed towards the WEC.

Vosse explained that they chose WEC instead of GTWCE because they believed it would be an excellent opportunity for him. Vosse also informed Crash that they are in talks with Rossi regarding the possibility of participating in some GT endurance races that the Italian still enjoys, outside of the WEC. An announcement on this matter is anticipated in the next few weeks.

WRT has made changes to the driver roster for its #46 car in the WEC's LMGT3 category. Martin has been substituted by Kelvin van der Linde, a seasoned GT driver known for his victories at the Nurburgring 24 Hours and finishing second in the DTM in 2024.

From an external perspective, it might seem that WRT is heavily prioritizing the #31 car. In the 2025 season, this vehicle will be spearheaded by star BMW driver Augusto Farfus, Timur Boguslavskiy, and Le Mans victor Yasser Shahin, who is making the switch from Porsche. However, Vosse perceives this situation differently.

"We've never participated in a championship just for the sake of competing," he remarked. "Last year, we demonstrated that both of our vehicles have the capability to win races and contend for titles. Many assumed that car #46 would be the standout, but ultimately, it was car #31 that shone, which is also a positive outcome for me. We possess two competitive cars. Naturally, having Vale in one of them makes the prospect of him securing his tenth world title exciting. It would be a personal achievement. However, our primary objective is to elevate both vehicles to a competitive standard, not just focus on one."

In November of last year, Rossi participated in the WEC rookie test held in Bahrain, where he drove a BMW M8 Hybrid LMDh car, which competes in the series' premier Hypercar category. True to his style, Rossi approached this with serious intent rather than just to satisfy a curiosity.

Is it possible that this might develop into something greater later on?

Vosse expressed that Vale aims to be a strong contender, whether it's in the Hypercar class or GT racing. His goal is to compete at a high level and achieve victory. If they decide to enter the Hypercar category at this point, they would initially be at a disadvantage and need to work hard to catch up. During the Bahrain test, Vale showcased remarkable speed and skill, proving himself to be outstanding.

"It was precisely what he required to be fast. He was thrilled, and his expression as he stepped out of the car resembled that of someone who had just won a race, simply because he was performing so well. He found himself in a leading position, which is exactly where he aims to be. For an athlete like him, not seeing his name at the top is quite challenging."

The thought of Valentino Rossi driving a prototype sports car at Le Mans is an exciting possibility that the World Endurance Championship (WEC) would likely welcome enthusiastically. Over the years, the series has seen participation from many renowned figures, but the level of fan devotion that Rossi brings is unique, as Vosse discovered in the GT World Challenge Europe series a few years back.

He acknowledges, "Our initial race as a team was at Imola in 2022, and it was a disaster." He continues, "We didn't anticipate such a situation in a series that typically doesn't attract a large number of Rossi supporters. However, Rossi enthusiasts aren't just limited to MotoGP; they are dedicated to Vale himself and will follow him to any event he participates in."

"Naturally, after the initial race, adjustments were necessary. We had to modify some aspects and ensure we were highly organized to manage the fans effectively. This kind of situation is unique. In the World Endurance Championship (WEC), there have been renowned figures like Fernando Alonso, Jenson Button, and Robert Kubica. While they are major names in WEC, their fan following doesn't compare to that of Vale."

Despite Rossi reducing his racing schedule in 2025, he remains as determined as ever, preparing for another campaign in the World Endurance Championship (WEC). Securing a tenth championship, officially called the FIA Endurance Trophy for LMGT3 Drivers, will be a formidable challenge, yet Rossi has consistently demonstrated that he is more than capable of rising to the occasion.

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