ROSSI DRAWS LOUD CHEERS AT LONDON ALBUM LAUNCH

Valentino Rossi made a private trip to London with his partner, Francesca, after appearing at a GT race in Portimão. The nine-time world champion visited the O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire for the launch of “Amatour,” the new album by his close friend, Italian singer Cesare Cremonini.

Rossi was spotted by fans on a balcony before the event, prompting loud cheers and chants of “Vale.” He smiled and waved to the crowd. Cremonini is a keen motorsport follower and longtime admirer of Rossi, and has regularly attended MotoGP events. He has also performed at private celebrations, including the wedding of VR46 Academy rider Pecco Bagnaia.

During the London appearance, Rossi was asked about the title prospects of his VR46 protégé Marco Bezzecchi, who was 46 points behind championship leader Jorge Martin. Rossi acknowledged the challenge but backed Bezzecchi’s speed: “It’s certainly difficult, but why not? In my opinion, Bez has shown this year that he is the fastest.”

He noted that 46 points was a substantial gap, particularly with two riders ahead, but said there were still plenty of races left and Bezzecchi needed to try to win. Rossi also recalled that Bezzecchi had been very quick in Australia in 2025 and might have won without the long-lap penalties. On the coincidence of the 46-point deficit, Rossi joked: “A good number, isn’t it?”