Valentino will be racing at 41 thanks to this latest two-year contract renewal with Yamaha.
There's no doubt that he's taken on a tough challenge, because it becomes increasingly difficult to maintain one's physical fitness levels and focus with age.
Not to mention the fact that recovery times become longer. A drama for top athletes who struggle to retain their habitual training standards.
This is the reality... or is it?
“Well, yes and no. It's true that it's a bit tougher, but when the results come, the satisfaction is even greater - responds Max Biaggi with a laugh - i was able to win my last world title at 41, with Aprilia in Superbike. Why shouldn't Valentino do the same? I won with just a half point advantage... but the important thing is I did it!”