Rossi wins fifth Monza Show

While his fierce MotoGP rival Marc Marquez was enjoying himself at Motegi last weekend, Valentino Rossi saddled up at the 37th annual Monza Rally Show for some head-to-head racing on the legendary blacktop of the Italian circuit.

The yearly show brings together an eclectic mix of drivers and riders, all testing their mettle on a custom rally-stage course; which takes in sections of the modern F1 circuit, as well as the historic bankings of the famous venue.

Driving an M-Sport prepared Ford Fiesta, VR46 switched up from two wheels to four in flawless style, beating WRC hotshot Daniel Sordo and endurance racer Marco Bonanomi by a stunning 18.4-second margin.

It was Rossi's fifth win at the event, alongside co-driver Carlo Cassina. He was also joined in the pit box by great friends Davide Brivio and Alessio Salucci, who finished fifth and ninth respectively.

“In the last few years, together with Monster Energy, we have really built up the event to something very special. This year we have had great weather, and a lot of people came out to watch and support," Rossi said.

Of course to finish the season with a victory is a great feeling. To win the rally and the Master Show at the same time is fantastic. Taking the win in front of the grandstands, with the great atmosphere here in Monza is very special to me.

"I am so focused for the entire season on racing, so when it comes to the end of November, after Valencia [the final race of MotoGP], I can’t wait to meet the team and drive my rally car. Of course I always want to be competitive – as a rider or driver, and I want to fight for the podium when I am in the car here at Monza.

"It’s a great way to have the thrill of a race, without the huge pressure I experience in MotoGP. I’m very happy and very proud – thankyou to all my fans and team and everybody – it’s the best way to say ‘Ciao’ for the year.”