Thread: ***Rossi turns down 24HR Le Mans for 2010***

Valentino Rossi has turned down an offer to race alongside Jean Alesi in a Ferrari 430 GT2 car in the 2010 Le Mans 24 Hours.

The reigning Moto GP world champion, who finished third in class in the Vallelunga Six Hours GT race last month, told AUTOSPORT in the summer that he would be interested in competing in the French classic in the future.

But as he prepares to compete for his tenth world championship title, Rossi has ruled out any participation in car events that might distract him from this task - including Rally Mexico.

"I'm flattered by Jean's offer, but June is the busiest month of the championship, with as many as three races scheduled, so it's impossible to think of participating in the 24 Hours race," Rossi told Gazzetta dello Sport.

Rossi's Yamaha team manager David Brivio also emphasised Rossi's determination to concentrate on defending his crown in 2010.

"Valentino has even abandoned the idea of taking part in the Rally of Mexico, because it's too close to the start of the season, and there are the test sessions too," said Brivio. "Truth is, when the season starts, Vale wants to concentrate solely on bikes, which constitute his proper job.

"That's why he takes part in rallies and car races only once the season finishes."

Former Ferrari F1 driver Alesi, who will race an AF Corse Ferrari 430 in the Sebring 12 Hours and Le Mans, admitted he had got the idea after learning that Rossi was interested in doing the 24 Hours.

"It would be a dream for me, even though in truth I haven't spoken to Valentino yet," said the 1995 Canadian Grand Prix winner. "I got the idea after reading of his desire to race at Le Mans. So why not do that with me?"

That's unfortunate, it would be great to see Rossi take part in the year's biggest race.

^^^Not to worry, Rossi will be racing Rally and GT cars when he retires from Moto GP competition. We'll be watching Rossi race for many years to come.

Not surprising....he's the ultimate professional racer, and knows what risks are appropriate and which are a little too much. I always do love the Ferrari F1 speculation that occurs at the end of each season though. I'd be great to see how he'd stack up if he dedicated himself.