Dovizioso MotoGP Legend

Andrea Dovizioso joins the Hall of Fame at Mugello as a MotoGP Legend. 

On a momentous occasion at the Gran Premio d’Italia Oakley, Andrea Dovizioso was officially inducted into the Hall of Fame as a MotoGP Legend. The ceremony occurred at the legendary Autodromo Internazionale del Mugello, a track where Dovizioso has left an indelible mark throughout his illustrious career. With a packed house in attendance, the celebration of Dovizioso’s achievements reached its pinnacle as he received his well-deserved MotoGP Legend medal from Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta.

Dovizioso’s journey to becoming a MotoGP Legend is a testament to his remarkable talent and unwavering dedication. He began his ascent in motorcycle racing by winning the 125cc World Championship in 2004. Subsequently, he transitioned to the fiercely competitive 250 class, where he consistently challenged his rivals. In 2008, Dovizioso made his MotoGP debut and showcased his potential by securing a podium finish in his rookie season.

Dovizioso’s career flourished as he notched his first premier-class victory and maintained a consistent presence on the podium during his tenure with Honda. After his move to Yamaha Tech3, he continued to impress with numerous rostrum finishes. However, his alliance with the Ducati factory team in 2013 marked a turning point in his journey. Dovizioso and Ducati embarked on a remarkable partnership, culminating in outstanding performances.

During the 2014, 2015, and 2016 seasons, Dovizioso secured twelve podium finishes, showcasing his extraordinary skill and determination. His triumph at the Malaysian Grand Prix in 2016 was particularly significant, ending his victory drought since 2009. The following years witnessed Dovizioso’s incredible frontrunning form as he clinched Championship runner-up positions in 2017, 2018, and 2019, accumulating a remarkable 12 wins. His final victory came in his farewell season with Ducati at the 2020 Austrian Grand Prix, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.

Following a brief hiatus from racing, Dovizioso returned as an Independent Team rider with Yamaha in the latter part of 2021. However, he ultimately decided to retire after Misano in 2022, bidding farewell to a career remembered for its achievements and sportsmanship. The MotoGP paddock united in applauding Dovizioso, recognizing him as a pivotal figure in the modern era of motorcycle racing, having participated in some of the most thrilling duels the sport has witnessed.

“It has been a big pleasure to be working with you all these years. I have a special memory, and maybe you remember, when you were racing in 125s, I was at the Sachsenring and you were on track, stopping before the end of the straight. We hadn’t talked personally yet, but I congratulated you for the results that season, and I saw immediately your eyes… it was important for me to realise that someone like you was thinking about being stronger, going the next season to 250s and then in MotoGP… there have been some incredible races and an incredible history. Thank you very much for that. You are a great rider, but an even better person, our relationship has always been fantastic. You’ve told us many things and your presence in the Safety Commission has been something important for us, and I also want to thank you for that… your presence has always been a great help. You’ve been able to give many ideas to us, and the only thing I can say is that’s it’s a great honour for me to induct you into the Hall of Fame. Thank you, Andrea.” – Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna. 

With his induction into the MotoGP Legends Hall of Fame, Dovizioso joins an illustrious group of riders who have left an indelible mark on the sport. Sharing this prestigious honor with legends such as Valentino Rossi, Giacomo Agostini, Mick Doohan, and Casey Stoner further solidifies Dovizioso’s status among the all-time greats of MotoGP.

“Thank you very much, it’s a big pleasure to listen to what Carmelo said, I’m very proud. There are the results, everyone wants to win, but in the end if you come back here and hear something like that, you can be proud. So I’m really happy about the relationship we had over this long period and I’m so happy to be back today at Mugello, a special place for Italian riders, and to become a MotoGP™ Legend. It’s something I didn’t expect and I’m so happy to be alongside these names, it’s something crazy. And I’m so happy to see everyone here!” – Andrea Dovizioso MotoGP Legend.

Andrea Dovizioso’s induction into the MotoGP Legends Hall of Fame is a testament to his remarkable skill, resilience, and contributions to the sport. His storied career, marked by numerous victories, podium finishes, and captivating duels, has left an indelible legacy in the hearts of fans worldwide. As the MotoGP community gathers to celebrate this momentous occasion, Dovizioso’s name is forever etched alongside the most revered figures in motorcycle racing history.

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