Who could have imagined one day seeing Valentino Rossi and Casey Stoner, two emblematic figures of MotoGP, sharing laughs and companionable moments on a flat-track track? However, this is exactly what happened at VR46 Ranch, thus ending a rivalry that marked the history of motorcycling.
The legendary duel between Casey Stoner et
Valentino Rossiwhich captivated the world of MotoGP in the 2000s and 2010s, now seems to be a thing of the past. What was once an intense rivalry, marked by memorable battles and controversial gestures, has given way to an unprecedented camaraderie, as evidenced by their recent meeting at
VR46 Motor Ranch at Tavullia.
The day began with an improbable meeting at EICMA in Milan, where Stonerambassador of the Nolan helmet brand, shared memories of his glory days with his fans. But it's an unexpected detour to the ranch
Rossi which truly left its mark. Far from the cameras and the pressure of MotoGP, Stoner et
Rossi found themselves on flat-track motorcycles, riding on the clay of the famous private circuit of
Tavullia.
This moment, for fans of the two pilots, was a real homecoming. Stonerrelaxed and smiling, sharing a moment of complicity with a Rossi
also beaming, said: “ a lot has changed in the last twelve years, but the passion for motorcycling remains the same. » A statement that perfectly sums up this turning point in their relationship.
Rossi and Stoner: an unexpected reunion and a budding friendship
Their years competing in MotoGP were tumultuous. Of
2007 to 2012they went through some of the most intense and memorable duels in the history of the sport, including the famous maneuver at Laguna Seca in 2008a moment both controversial and legendary. At that time,
Stoner et Rossi were anything but friends, but time allowed the hard feelings to dissipate.
Today, the track Tavullia has become the ground of reconciliation, a place where the rivalries of yesteryear give way to friendship. Images from the day, where the two drivers exchange jokes and smiles, quickly invaded social networks, sparking enthusiastic reactions from fans. One commented: “ the end of an era, but the beginning of a new era of respect and camaraderie. »
This event seems to be a prelude to something bigger. Rossi organizes each year the winter race of “ 100 Km of Champions » on the same dirt track. The 2025 edition, which will mark the tenth anniversary of this race, will be held on January 10 and 11with the participation of the best MotoGP and Superbike riders. Although the list of participants has not yet been revealed, fans can expect a thrilling show. And who knows, maybe we'll see
Stoner take the handlebars again for a new competition, under the benevolent gaze of his former rival who became a friend.
Pour Rossi et Stonerit was not just a day on motorcycles, but a symbol of the end of a feud and the beginning of a new friendship, with the motorcycle at the center of it all. A strong message, for the fans as well as for the drivers themselves.
