Hamilton expresses gratitude for Rossi: 'I will never forget that'

Lewis Hamilton regrets the fact that Valentino Rossi will no longer be on display after this weekend. The seven-time world champion says in an interview with Motorsport.com that he has enjoyed watching the Italian in recent years.

Rossi's career includes 115 victories and nine championships, making him a great figure in MotoGP. "It's quite sad to see that [he] is going to stop," states Hamilton. "With his motivation, his approach and all his achievements he has achieved great things. The passion he has for his sport has always been evident, he's such a legend, one of the greatest men in that sport."

At the same time, however, Hamilton fully understands his decision. "It's a shame he's not going to race anymore and to see his style, but on the other hand, it's also the beginning of a new chapter for him. He's also busy with his family life, which is very valuable. I am personally grateful to have been able to share the track with him, I will never forget that."

At 36 years old, the British driver is also no longer the youngest driver. Despite this, he signed a new contract with Mercedes a few months ago which ties him to the German racing stable until the end of 2023.