On the occasion of the second consecutive Grand Prix held on the asphalt of Misano, let’s look at the story of a legendary driver eternally linked to this track. Indeed, it was here that Wayne Rainey suffered a serious accident during the 1993 season, forcing him to retire from the world championship for good. Here is the story of a hero.

Six and a half seasons. That’s how long it took him to become an undisputed legend. But before the glory, the dirt track. That’s how he started his career, like most Americans at the time. He then logically moved on to the national track championship, the AMA. So, there’s no doubt about it: Wayne Rainey is a crack.

On Kawasaki, he won the 1983 edition and, at the same time, was approached by Kenny roberts in person to join his new structure in Grand Prix, in 250cc. At 24, he joined the highest level through the front door. The season in question did not live up to expectations, but he still had time ahead of him. When you have the recipe, All that’s left to do is to make it again and again in the hope of finding the perfect seasoning..

Rainey returned home to train in Superbike. He spent three years in the championship, and discovered another American who caused him some problems: Kevin Schwantz. “King Kenny”, his mentor, offered him another deal for 1988, sure of the Californian’s potential. He wasn’t wrong. Except that this time, it was the 500cc that stood before him.

The decision to bring back Rainey is, in retrospect, one of the best in the history of the tuning fork company. A driving genius, led by another genius, could only succeed. Wayne Rainey was racing intelligence, purity in execution. The impression of not battling with the mount, while he is the fastest man on the track.