‘Very Jealous’ Rossi expects F1 drivers to ‘enjoy Mugello a lot’

Valentino Rossi says he will be watching Sunday’s inaugural F1 Tuscan Grand Prix with great interest as the iconic Mugello circuit prepares to welcome the premier category for the first time.

Considered one of the world’s greatest motorcycle venues, Mugello will swap two wheels for four this weekend with F1’s first visit, one of three Italian circuits - together with Monza and Imola - to host a round of the series in 2020.

F1’s arrival comes in the year Mugello was forced to cancel the Italian MotoGP race in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

Indeed, the maiden trip to Mugello is keenly anticipated by many given its long home straight and high-speed sweeping turns - namely flat 275km/h Arrabbiata 1 and 2 turns - have made it a huge favourite among bikers of the year.

Rossi, who has previously tested for Ferrari F1 at Mugello, believes it will leave a lasting impression on drivers.

“I am very jealous because we don’t race in Mugello this year, so for me and a lot of riders it is one of the best tracks in the world for the motorcycles and the cars. 

“I drove the Ferrari F1 car two times in Mugello and it was incredible, plus one time in the wet which was unbelievable especially Savelli, Arrabbiata 1 and Arrabbiata 2. 

“In Arrabiata 2 you go flat with an F1 car at 275km/h and it is completely blind because you’re lower in F1 compared to MotoGP so you don’t see the exit.

“I think they will enjoy it and I am curious to follow it. I think the track is a bit narrow because the cars are big but I think everyone will enjoy Mugello a lot.”

Rossi was also asked ahead of San Marino MotoGP event in Misano about his opinion regarding the announcement Sebastian Vettel will switch from Ferrari to the Aston Martin Racing team for 2021.

“It’s a great shame, he is finishing in a bad way at Ferrari,” he said. “Also because they were close to winning the championship one or two times, but didn’t. Now it is bad to see the situation because the car is quite slow and Vettel is a top driver, so I think he will demonstrate his speed with Aston Martin.”