Valentino Rossi to tackle GT World Challenge
![Valentino Rossi, WRT](https://msm.tjlabs.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Rossi2-800x450.jpg)
WRT
Fresh from hanging up his leathers, Valentino Rossi will swap to fireproof race suits after inking a deal with Audi Sport to contest this year’s GT World Challenge as he seeks to start a new career in sports car racing.
Rossi will race an Audi R8 LMS GT3, run by Audi -backed Team WRT in the full GT World Challenge season this year, which takes in both the Sprint and Endurance Cup championships. His car will wear the famous No 46.
![Valentino Rossi, WRT](https://msm.tjlabs.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Rossi1-800x450.jpg)
Bike legend Rossi will switch to GT racing full-time with Audi WRT
WRT
The nine-time motorcycle world champion is no stranger to four-wheeled competition, having taken part in multiple one-off events over recent years, including the Monza Rally and Gulf 12 Hours GT race. The 42-year-old had been tipped for a future attempt at the Le Mans 24 Hours, but was outspoken about wanting to gain more experience before doing that.
Rossi said: “Everybody knows I’m a huge car racing fan and that I was always interested in switching to four wheels after my MotoGP career. Now I’m available to devote myself to a car programme at a high level. It’s a perfect fit.”
The GTWCE starts at Imola on April 1.