Over 10,000 spectators gathered at the Vallelunga Circuit to watch Valentino Rossi on four wheels, as the MotoGP World Champion teamed up with Andrea Ceccato and Alessio Salucci in a Ferrari 430 prepared by the Kessel Team.

Fog forced the opening laps of the endurance race to be driven behind the safety car, but it was Rossi who started behind the wheel and again took over in the sixth hour. However, there were problems for the Italian trio, as mechanical issues and an outbreak of fire in the closing stages prevented them from challenging for victory.

Rossi and his team-mates eventually finished third in the GT3 class, behind the Corvette of Emanuele Pirro, Carlo Graziani and Elio Marchetti and the Ferrari 430 of Forgione, Carugati and La Mazza.

“We had a bit of misfortune at the end, so I’d like to come back and try again,” said Rossi. “If there is an opportunity to return next year, I’d be happy to, because when you are at the front only 40 minutes from the end it leaves a bit of a bitter taste.”

“I was scared a little by the fire, but the safety guys were very quick to react. It’s tough, because we came close to victory. There wasn’t a battle at the start because of the safety car, but we’ve all had fun because we ran well and had many fans who came along.”

Pirro, who won the GT3 class, was quick to acknowledge Rossi’s efforts, and said, “Valentino is an example for everyone, because he’s a champion and has the humility to try different disciplines, without regret and giving his all.”