Valentino Rossi and ‘Uccio’ Salucci may have finished only 18th in the Blancpain Endurance Series race at Monza on Sunday, but taking part in the event seems to have recharged the batteries of the former World Champion after his controversial GP race in Qatar.
After Salucci’s accident during the second hour that dropped their team back to 29th, Rossi was able to wrestle back eleven positions positions that galvanized him.
“Taking part in this race was the best medicine,” said Rossi to the Gazzetta dello Sport.
“I’m very glad I came.
After a race like in Qatar we wanted a nice weekend on track.
I drove strongly and made some good times, it was important.
”Despite the treacherous weather conditions and mishaps, Rossi said that he wouldn’t mind taking part in another endurance race, “We paid the price of it being our debut.
I forgot to plug in the headset, so I did three laps and then spinned at the Ascari and the traction control turned off.
To reset the system I had to shut down the car while going down the straight.
We’ll check the calendar but I’d like to do some other races.
”Team manager Vittoriano Guareschi was present on Sunday following his rider from the garage, which put to bed any lingering rumors of a Rossi-Ducati divorce, “No, no, I’m not stupid.
In those moments it’s easy to say certain things, but there was never any doubt,” commented Rossi.
