According to , MotoGP superstar Valentino Rossi is poised to launch his own Moto2 team for the 2011 season. Rossi is said to be funding the team, with lifelong friend Uccio Salucci acting as team manager. Italian rider Andrea Iannone (currently 3rd in the Moto2 Championship) has been linked to the team, as has chassis designer Suter (how’s that for a star-studded cast?). It’s not clear at this time if Rossi is expected to field one or two machines in the 600cc prototype class.
With applications due on September 28th, we have a hard time believing Rossi’s bid wouldn’t be accepted into Moto2 if he is indeed applying. The nine-time World Champion has a ton of clout and power in GP racing, and could see team management as way to stay involved with GP racing once he’s career is over (not to mention the move would let the Italian further capitalize on his stardom in motorcycling).
With Rossi going to Ducati for the 2011 & 2012 seasons, the Italian’s star power and marketing potential are perhaps at their all-time high, despite the fact Rossi is having a dismal racing season.
Source: MCN
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