LOT 123 - Valentino Rossi Signed Full-Size Replica AGV GP Tech Helmet - Donkey - 2009

Auction

MotoGP ™ Authentics is delighted to offer collectors a Full-Size replica of one of the most memorable helmet designs in motorsport history. The ‘Donkey’ design, famously worn by Valentino Rossi at his home nation race, is a standout visual to elevate any collection and has been authentically signed by the legend himself.  

Originally seen at the Milano GP in 2009, Rossi chose the design to poke fun at himself for crashing out of the Indianapolis MotoGP the week prior. This humble act proved to be good luck as he returned to winning ways and finished in 1st place in Italy.  

Based on top-of-the-range AGV GP-Tech, the helmet was designed by Aldo Drudi and features the words 'The Donkey' where Rossi’s better-known nickname, 'The Doctor', would usually be. This is supported with an additional translation, 'El Sumer', for his hometown of Tavullia. This helmet also features Rossi's dogs, sticking to the overall theme with donkey features applied. The eyes of the large Donkey on the top of the helmet are based on Rossi’s and draws comparisons as a spiritual successor to his famous ‘My Face’ helmet from 2008. It also features typical Rossi helmet iconography such as the sun and moon on the chin bar and the number 46 on the sides.  

Rossi later explained that it is customary to call someone a donkey for a stupid mistake and so thought it would be funny to reference this after he previously cost himself 25 championship points. After achieving victory wearing the helmet adorned by this design, he said he was “the flying donkey today!” 

The Doctor of Racing 

Rossi’s MotoGP™ journey is not one that is easily forgotten and is one of the most iconic in motorsport history. Bursting onto the scene in the late 1990s, Rossi quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. 

He claimed his first premier class title in 2001 and went on to dominate the early 2000s, winning five consecutive championships between 2001 and 2005. Known for his fierce competitiveness, Rossi switched teams from Honda to Yamaha in 2004 and proved his greatness by winning immediately.  

His career spanned over two decades, during which he amassed 115 Grand Prix wins and nine world championships across multiple classes. Even in the face of injury and fierce rivalries, Rossi remained a consistent contender and fan favourite. His enduring legacy lies not only in his titles, but in his passion for the racing – forever cementing his place as Il Dottore, the Doctor of racing. 

Purchasing this helmet means owning a signed piece of memorabilia from the nine-time Grand Prix motorcycle racing World Champion. The winning bidder will be adding a unique item to their collection that celebrates the only rider to have competed over 400 Grands Prix and remains the record holder for most premier class victories. Nicknamed "the Doctor", Valentino Rossi has earned his reputation as one of the greatest motorcycle racers of all time. Now, you can be part of that legacy.  

Key Features:  

⦁    Full Size recreation of 2009 ‘The Donkey’ helmet.

⦁    Signed by Rossi himself.

⦁    Famous and unique design, synonymous with Valentino Rossi.

⦁    Winning design achieved on home Italian soil.

Please note that this item has been consigned to this auction from a private seller. All consignors are members of our database and are vetted for authenticity. 

SKU: 160202-00250000-3

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