Rossi the greatest

Five-time 500cc motorcycle world champion Mick Doohan labelled Valentino Rossi as good as any rider in history after the Italian's record-breaking triumph at the Indianapolis MotoGP yesterday.

Rossi sped within a solitary point of an eighth world title in the rain-shortened race in which he surpassed compatriot Giacomo Agostini's record of 68 victories in the top category.

“That said, Valentino is probably as good as there has ever been, if not the best.

“I'm sure he will win many more races, if he stays fit, and I'm looking forward to seeing him go head-to-head with Casey Stoner and the others at Phillip Island in a few weeks.”

Rossi was declared the winner after 20 laps when the race — the first motorcycle event at the legendary Brickyard since 1909 — was stopped as heavy rain and gales, a legacy of Hurricane Ike, swept the circuit.

Rossi's 69th victory in the top category handed him an 87-point lead over defending champion Stoner, who was fourth. With four races left, he can clinch the championship by picking up a point at Motegi in Japan in a fortnight.

Rossi was pleased to grab two slices of motorcycling history.

“To win the first race here at Indianapolis is a great emotion and to beat Agostini's record is also incredible. Now I hope my record will stand for 30 years like his,” Rossi said.

“These were the worst conditions of my career. When the wind and rain came, it became very hard.

“I think I could have kept going for another eight laps, but there were things flying through the air — beer cans, plastic glasses — so really I think it was the right decision to stop the race.

“Sincerely I don't think I've ever ridden in conditions like these and I was lucky because I was far in front and didn't have to take any big risks.”

Doohan said Rossi's strike rate was impressive.

“To win as many races as he has in less than nine seasons shows how consistent he has been, and that's his strength, as well as his ability,” he said.

“He's always ready to race, regardless of the circumstances. The weather was terrible, and since Valentino is leading the championship, he could have just cruised around and got some points.

“Instead, he was the guy pushing it harder than the others. He just rode away from them and that's why he has achieved so much.

“I was racing 500s when Valentino arrived on the grand prix scene in '96 in the 125s.

“He's always been serious about his racing, but he's also been someone who enjoys himself off the track and that's why he's so popular with so many fans around the world.”

Details, Page 82

TOPS ON TWO WHEELS

Most Motorcycle Grand Prix wins in the top category.

Wins Rider

69* Valentino Rossi (Ita) 2000-08*

68 Giacomo Agostini (Ita) 1965-1976

54 Mick Doohan (Aus) 1990-1998

*Still competing