ITALY: Valentino Rossi is a legendary figure who commands the devotion of a diverse array of fans. Whether you’re a die-hard motorcycle racing enthusiast or simply enamoured with Rossi’s magnetic charisma, the “Doctor” continues to captivate the hearts of fans worldwide.
Now, the seven-time MotoGP World Champion is about to embark on a fresh racing adventure as he joins the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile World Endurance Championship (FIA WEC) Rookie Test, set to take place on Sunday, November 5, 2023.
For those admirers of Rossi who are more interested in his talent than the number of wheels on his racing machine, this announcement is sure to spark excitement. Rossi is all set to slide into the driver’s seat of a Le Mans Prototype car, specifically an LMP2 category vehicle, in accordance with current FIA WEC regulations.
LMP2 cars are characterized by their closed cockpits and no production minimums. The FIA WEC features two LMP classes, with the LMP2 class designed for independent teams that aren’t manufacturers or engine suppliers.
Rossi’s chosen ride for the Rookie Test is the potent Oreca 07, powered by a 4.2-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine delivering around 540 horsepower.
The Italian racing icon will be representing Team WRT, a fitting choice considering his participation with the team’s BMW M4 GT3 car in the 2023 Fanatec GT Endurance Cup and Fanatec GT Sprint Cup.
Additionally, Rossi looks forward to being in Bahrain to witness the final race of the season, as he harbours hopes of racing in the FIA WEC in the future.
Notably, the FIA WEC will discontinue the use of LMP2-class cars in most of its races in 2024, with exceptions made for the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
However, Team WRT plans to enter two of its BMW M4 GT3 cars in the new GT3 class, offering Rossi’s fans a promising prospect to anticipate. The world of motorsports is in for an exciting chapter as Valentino Rossi takes on the FIA WEC Rookie Test in his pursuit of new thrills on four wheels.
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