1000cc move to entice Valentino Rossi to race on?

Valentino Rossi has hinted that he could prolong his career to race in the new 1000cc MotoGP world championship in 2012.

The current 800cc four-stroke format will be scrapped at the end of 2011 with a new 1000cc capacity limit introduced to help boost dwindling grid numbers and make premier class racing more affordable.

Rossi, who was defeated in the last ever 990cc world championship in 2010, said the 1000cc proposals could tempt him to delay his retirement.

Rossi, who will be 33 when the 1000cc machines return, said: “Theoretically, I am very happy to go back to the 1000cc, because I like it more than 800cc and it is more fun.

“Of course we will have to see how the technical regulation will be for these engines and we will have to see whether they are fast and fun to ride like they were in 2006.

“Anyway, going back to 1000cc is an important challenge, as far as my motivation are concerned, and may convince me to stay in MotoGP for longer.”

Looking closer in the future, Rossi again expressed his disappointment and frustration at the new engine restrictions implemented in MotoGP in 2010.

To slash costs to counter the global economic crisis, Rossi can only use six engines in the 18-round series and he said: “This rule is not fantastic for MotoGP.

“It will make everybody’s lives very difficult. To me it is not right that MotoGP have six engines only for the entire season, it is too tight.

“The rule is aimed to save money, but I think engines should be at least eight; ten would be easier and less risky.

“All manufacturers will have to adapt to the new rule and all riders will have to be careful, in order to save the engines and arrive at the end of the season with six engines only.”