Moto GP Italian World Champion, Valentino Rossi celebrates on his Yamaha after winning his GP race during the Spanish Motorcycle Grand Prix at the Ricardo Tormo racetrack in Valencia. [Reuters]

Italy's world champion Valentino Rossi signed off his season in typical style winning his ninth race of the season at the Valencia MotoGP on his Yamaha.

The Italian master rider finished ahead of compatriot Max Biaggi, riding a Honda, while Australia's Troy Bayliss ended his term with Ducati on a high note by taking third.

Six-time world champion Rossi picked up the 68th victory of his career after wrapping up his fourth MotoGP title two weeks ago in Australia.

Rossi, 25, held off a late challenge from Biaggi to claim his third race victory in a row, and guarantee Yamaha the team title.

The Italian overtook polesitter Makoto Tamada on lap six and made his decisive move on lap 15 to hold his lead until the line. Japan's Tamada finished in fifth position.

Rossi, who has another year left on his Yamaha deal, revealed on Sunday that he will stay in the world championship for at least two more years.

"For sure next year I am staying with Yamaha, and I want another year in motorbikes," said the Italian who wrapped up Yamaha's first world title since 1992 after switching from Honda last year.

Rossi added that he was delighted with his season after many had expected him to struggle when he switched teams. "To win nine races has been unbelievable for everybody and we also won the team award," said Rossi.  

(Agencies)

sign off : （停止活动）

polesitter: （首发位置的选手）