Valentino Rossi

It seems a bit odd at first glance that Tavullia, the Italian city with a population of just 7,180 that counts eight-time MotoGP champion (including this year's World Championship) Valentino Rossi as its most famous son, would actually lower the town's speed limits in the racer's honor. After all, Rossi makes his living going as fast as possible. But, according to an unnamed spokesman for the local council, "He is the town's most famous son... Changing the speed limit is a fitting tribute to a m

In a statement to the Italian press Wednesday, MotoGP world champion Valentino Rossi announced, "No Formula One, at least for the moment. I'm staying with bikes." The announcement came a day after Rossi was honored with the "Spirit of Sport" award at the annual Laureus World Sports Awards in Barcelona (photo at right), for his contributions to MotoGP during his five years as World Champion.