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Valentino Rossi has had numerous nicknames during his racing career.
His first prominent nickname was "Rossifumi".
Rossi explained the etymology of this nickname as a reference and tribute to fellow rider Norifumi Abe.
His next nickname appeared some time around his days racing in the 250cc World Championship. The nickname "Valentinik" was a
reference to the Italian Donald Duck superhero, "Paperinik".
Since his dominance in 500cc and MotoGP, Rossi has used the nickname "The Doctor".
This has been attributed to his "cold and clinical dismantling of his opponents" as well as his cool and calm composure in racing compared to his frenetic
days in 125cc and 250cc where his performance was erratic and dangerous, resulting in numerous crashes.
There are two theories as to why Rossi is entitled "The Doctor", one is Rossi adopted
the nickname upon having earned a degree, which in Italy entitles one to use the title "Doctor".
Another, as spoken by Graziano himself, "The Doctor" because,
I dont think there is a particular reason, but it's beautiful, and is important,
The Doctor. And in Italy, The Doctor is a name you give to someone for respect,
it's very important, The Doctor... important". These days Rossi rarely crashes and in fact holds
the record for the longest streak of consecutive podiums. From September 8 2002 to April 18 2004, he stood on the podium at the end of all
23 races including every race in 2003.
He is famous for using the number 46 only, the racing number of his father,
Graziano. Typically, a World Championship winner (and also runner-up and third place)
is awarded the #1 sticker for the next season. However in an homage to Barry Sheene
(who was the first rider of the modern era to keep the same number), Rossi has stayed
with the now-famous #46 throughout his career. He traditionally also incorporates his
favorite color (fluorescent yellow) into his leather designs. Rossi wears the #1 reserved for the reigning World Champion on the shoulder of his racing outfit.
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