Misano set for Italian Grand Prix milestones

The most successful nation in the history of the World Championship, Italy has the chance to set a series of milestones at the Misano circuit on Sunday. Four Italian riders are making the short trip to the San Marino track to represent their country, and all have the chance to put their name into the record books.

The record everyone will be watching out for is that targeted by Valentino Rossi, who could equal MotoGP Legend Giacomo Agostini´s record of 68 premier class victories with a win in front of his hordes of fans. The Fiat Yamaha rider has drawn ever-closer to the feat with two consecutive triumphs at Laguna Seca and Brno.

A Rossi victory or one for Loris Capirossi, Andrea Dovizioso, Marco Melandri or any number of 125cc & 250cc competitors would also provide an outstanding feat for Italy itself. The country has provided 699 race wins in the various classes of the World Championship, and the magic 700 could be achieved this Sunday should the red, white and green flag be raised before the end of the afternoon.

Capirossi simply has to line up on the grid to claim the record for Grand Prix event appearances, having equaled Alex Barros´ feat of 276 last time out. The Rizla Suzuki rider took a podium finish in the Czech Republic, and could reach the 100 rostrum milestone on appearance number 277.