Former MotoGP rider Mattia Pasini has pledged to return to the championship 100km race for Valentino Rossi, who was left unconscious after a severe crash during the 2025 event. The MotoGP icon Valentino Rossi hosted the 11th Champions Dirt Track Contest 100Km at his VR46 Ranch in Tavullia last weekend, an event that draws top names from various motorcycle racing disciplines.
Pasini, a seasoned Moto2 competitor and a 2012 MotoGP participant, is a frequent visitor to Rossi’s ranch. Unfortunately, his race at the Champions 100km ended abruptly on Friday, November 28, after a violent collision with 2014 Moto2 champion Tito Rabat. Pasini lost consciousness and was airlifted to a nearby hospital as a precaution but suffered no serious injuries.
Speaking to Italian outlet GP One, Pasini described the crash as severe but part of the risks involved in flat track racing. He recalled being out of action for about two minutes after the crash but feeling much better after two days in the hospital. He explained how, in the heat of the race, Rabat’s acceleration caused his rear wheel to knock Pasini’s front wheel out, leading to the crash—something he attributed to unfortunate circumstances rather than blame.
Two doctors, Dr. Berardi and Dr. Lucidi, promptly attended to him and arranged for his helicopter transfer to the hospital, marking Pasini’s first helicopter ride. After thorough checks and scans, he was relieved to find no serious injuries and expressed his happiness when Rossi also regained consciousness.
Despite the frightening accident, Pasini is determined to compete in next year’s 12th Champions 100Km race. He acknowledged his injuries were mostly bruises and expressed regret for missing the main race but vowed to return stronger. The main 100km race held last weekend was won by Pecco Bagnaia and Augusto Fernandes.
Fan Take: This news is crucial for racing fans because it highlights the deep camaraderie and resilience within the motorcycle racing community. Pasini’s determination to return underscores the passion driving these athletes, promising thrilling competition and inspiring comebacks that keep the sport alive and exciting.
