Rossi describes 100 Grand Prix wins

When Valentino Rossi reached 100 Grand Prix victories with his superb win at Assen less than two weeks ago it was a true landmark moment in a special career, with only one other rider having ever achieved the same feat – the legendary Giacomo Agostini.

Rossi celebrated his century of triumphs in The Netherlands by unfurling a huge banner featuring a photo montage of his journey to yet another remarkable milestone. A week later at Laguna Seca motogp.com was with him as he described the highlights of his career.

Commencing his description by looking back at the early stages of his career in the 125cc class, he said, “The first victory was after 11 or 12 races I think, in Brno. This is for sure one of the most special moments because the first victory was something unforgettable. It was a great battle with (Jorge) Martinez and I will remember that day for my whole life. I just had one victory in 1996 but it was not bad for a rookie!”

On his first 2001 victory in Japan – win 29 of his career in the opening race of the year at Suzuka – which led to his third World title and his first in the premier class, Rossi commented, “That was a fantastic season with 11 victories and the third World Championship for me. The first win of the year at Suzuka on the 500cc Honda was a brave victory. Then there were more great races that season and at the end of the year I won the championship and I had my photo taken as you can see with Mick Doohan and Franco Uncini.”

On his historic 2004 campaign, in which he became the first rider to take back-to-back victories in the premier-class riding machines from two different manufacturers and only the second rider to win back-to-back premier-class titles on different machinery, the Italian star stated, “In 2004 I moved to Yamaha and I think my 60th win is the best one because to win on my debut with Yamaha was unbelievable and very exciting.”

“It was the start of a great season, with nine victories and I became the World Champion at Phillip Island with my 67th victory. It was great, just amazing to win (the title) on my debut with Yamaha.”

On his superb championship winning season last year Rossi added, “It was a great season in 2008, as we had changed a lot, changed tyres to Bridgestone. China was the first win of the year, which was very important, then there was Le Mans and Mugello with a fantastic helmet. After Mugello there was Laguna Seca and a great battle with Casey (Stoner), where I overtook him on the Corkscrew corner and that was a turning point of the year.”

The Doctor concluded, “The 99th was an unbelievable battle with Jorge Lorenzo at Catalunya with a great overtaking move on the last lap. So then we arrive at the end, and Assen, 100 victories, not too bad! We hope to continue this banner with some more victories!”