Description
The 2000 500cc World Championship ushered in a new era – a
new century, a new name for the series and a new generation of stars to battle
for motorcycle racing’s biggest prize. The MotoGP era burst into life with all
the action and drama you could ask for from Grand Prix racing.
The opening races were edge-of-the-seat thrillers, despite
many of the favourites throwing away their chances with spectacular crashes –
not least Max Biaggi’s warm-up lap fall in Spain. There were five different
winners in the first six races, with only Kenny Roberts Junior managing to do
the double. However, the Suzuki star’s rivals piled on the pressure and with
six rounds down Roberts and Yamaha’s Carlos Checa were tied at the top of the
table.
It was a season of two halves, however, thanks to the
amazing efforts of 500cc rookie Valentino Rossi. An heroic performance in damp
conditions at the British Grand Prix saw the reigning 250cc World Champion take
his first victory in the premier class. Coupled with a series of podium finishes,
the win put him at the heart of the title battle. A series of amazing rides
made Honda’s Rossi a genuine contender, but Roberts could not be denied. With
two rounds remaining, the American made history, becoming the first son of a
500cc World Champion to take the crown.
As well as a nail-biting title fight, the 2000 season
treated fans to many spectacular performances, including the race-winning
brilliance of Garry McCoy and Norick Abe, the thrilling Italian showdown
between Rossi, Biaggi and Loris Capirossi and a long overdue return to the
podium for a British rider, courtesy of Jeremy McWilliams.
This Official Review features action-packed footage from all
16 rounds of the season, including plenty from on-board the bikes giving you an
unrivalled white-knuckle view of the best elbow-to-elbow racing and spectacular
crashes. Interviews and informed commentary ensure this is a comprehensive
review of an historic year.