Fourteen years after taking his final bow in MotoGP, Casey Stoner continues to generate great enthusiasm among enthusiasts. He had further proof of this at World Ducati Week, organized in Misano at the beginning of July, where he met hundreds of supporters who came to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Italian brand as well as its riders, past and present.
Marc Márquez, Francesco Bagnaia, Fabio Di Giannantonio and Franco Morbidelli were obviously eagerly awaited by the public, as was Nicolò Bulega, who crushed the competition in Superbike, but Casey Stoner He too had his share of the crowds. He participated alongside them in the various demonstrations and activities organized throughout the weekend, eliciting applause from the spectators at each appearance.
Two weeks later, the Australian reflected on the event in a post shared on his social media, in which he said he was deeply touched by the welcome he received. "Being retired for 14 years and still receiving such support from fans has truly impressed me. Thank you."he wrote in the caption of several photos.
A simple post, in keeping with his image, but one that testifies to the enduring bond between the former driver and his fans. It must be said that Stoner He made Ducati history by being the first rider to deliver a world title in the premier class in 2007.
In addition to this historic title, his unique driving style, his talent and his absolute refusal of media attention made him one of the most prominent personalities of the 2000s and 2010s. His decision to end his career at only 27 years old, at the end of the 2012 season, surprised the paddock, but only increased the admiration and respect of the fans.
World Ducati Week wasn't his only appearance, as last week he headed to England for the Goodwood Festival of Speed, a must-see event for motorsport fans. There, he again participated in various demonstrations and reunited with other big names, including his former rival. Valentino Rossi, who for the occasion rode his Yamaha for the first time since his retirement at the end of 2021.
Si Casey Stoner Although he has been away from competition for 14 years, his aura has never faded. Between tributes from fans, invitations to the biggest events, and the memories left by his short but intense career, the Australian remains one of the most respected and beloved figures in MotoGP.