When Rossi Goes What It Means To MotoGP

It was hardly unexpected, but predicting what Rossi will do next has always been risky. In the same way that his glittering career made MotoGP into something special, his decision finally to retire affects everybody and everything in racing.

- Michael Scott

The biggest effect is on the fans. And on Dorna – flip sides of the same coin. It is 24 years since his first title, and 12 years since the last one, but his yellow-clad support army has not dwindled. If anything, the reverse. None of his title successors, try as they might, can command anything like the grandstand space … not even Marc Marquez.

Race attendances and TV figures peaked for Rossi, even when his results slumped. Dorna will be hard pressed to absorb his absence.

This is a problem a long time in the making. The question has often been raised: What happens when Rossi goes. Now we find out.

The impact on the riders is also huge. It’s been years since he was the prime target – the man everyone had to beat. But his influence runs much deeper. His departure destabilises an already uncertain rider market.

Most of all, with the 42-year-old calling time on the same weekend that class rookie Jorge Martin. aged just 23 taking a first MotoGP win, it confirms and underlines the changing of the guard. A new generation has taken over.

MotoGP is once again a young man’s game.

The details span the paddock and the classes.

Yamaha are now obliged to make two replacements rather than just the one for Vinales.