Giacomo Agostini, the unstoppable force in motorsport during the 1960s and early 1970s, earned a staggering 15 grand prix motorcycle world championships, eight of these in the now known MotoGP premier class.
He claimed an impressive 122 grand prix victories from 1963 to 1977, an accomplishment beyond the reach of most riders’ wildest dreams.
His performance between 1967 and 1972 was particularly stunning, as he claimed every race he participated in within the 350cc and 500cc categories from 1968 through 1970.
However, his career trajectory could have seen a dramatic shift had Ferrari’s proposition to bring the Italian superstar to Formula 1 in the period between 1966 and 1967 been successful.
Ferrari had previously experienced success with a bike racing legend, with John Surtees capturing the F1 world championship in 1964 for the prestigious team.
Agostini was presented with the opportunity to test a Ferrari Dino 206 Berlinetta in Modena, a proposition by Enzo Ferrari himself, igniting the potential for a career transformation.
“Ferrari invited me to test one of their cars,” Agostini disclosed in an interview with F1 Flow.com’s French edition.
“I regularly saw him in Modena since Ferrari and I used the same circuit for testing.
“He proposed the idea to me, I took the test drive, and it had me pondering for several days. It was a huge decision… after all, it was Ferrari offering me a car!”
After contemplating the possibility of transitioning to F1 with Ferrari, Agostini realized that his true passion remained with motorcycles, a choice that Enzo Ferrari respected.
“My entire life, I’ve been enchanted by two wheels and not four. So why should I turn my back on them now when I’m at the top of my game, consistently winning and standing on the podium every Sunday?” Agostini mused.
“Why should I abandon the very thing that has fascinated me since birth?
“Cars were never the stuff of my dreams, it was always motorcycles. So, I said no, I would be content with what I already had and stay [where I was].
“Primarily, my thoughts were focused on my deep affection for two-wheelers. That was my predominant thought.
“Why was I fixated on two wheels instead of four? And why should I abandon them now?
“When I expressed my sentiments to him [Enzo Ferrari], he valued it and said ‘I understand you’. He recognized my commitment.”
Towards the end of his motorcycle racing career, Agostini did compete in Formula 2 and the British F1 Championship, achieving some podium finishes, although they fell short in comparison to his two-wheel triumphs.
Ultimately, Agostini transitioned to a managerial role with Yamaha’s factory team in the 1980s, securing three 500cc championships with Eddie Lawson. He also briefly led Cagiva in the 1990s until the brand pulled out of the competition in 1994.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Giacomo Agostini’s career decision
How many grand prix motorcycle world titles did Giacomo Agostini win?
Agostini won a record 15 grand prix motorcycle world titles, eight of which came in the premier class, now known as MotoGP.
How many grand prix victories does Giacomo Agostini have?
Giacomo Agostini has 122 grand prix victories to his credit, achieved between 1963 and 1977.
Did Giacomo Agostini ever consider switching to Formula 1 racing?
Yes, between 1966 and 1967, Ferrari approached Agostini about possibly transitioning to Formula 1. He even tested a Ferrari car, but ultimately decided to stick with motorcycles.
Why did Giacomo Agostini decide not to switch to Formula 1?
Agostini decided not to switch to Formula 1 because he realized that his true passion was with motorcycles. He felt he shouldn’t betray the two wheels that had made him successful and fulfilled his dreams.
Did Giacomo Agostini participate in any car races later in his career?
Yes, towards the end of his motorcycle racing career, Agostini did compete in Formula 2 and the British F1 Championship, achieving some podium finishes, though they were not as successful as his motorcycle racing career.
What did Agostini do after his motorcycle racing career ended?
After his racing career, Agostini transitioned to a managerial role with Yamaha’s factory team in the 1980s, securing three 500cc championships with Eddie Lawson. He also briefly led Cagiva in the 1990s before the brand withdrew from competition in 1994.
More about Giacomo Agostini’s career decision
- Giacomo Agostini’s Profile
- History of MotoGP
- About Ferrari
- Enzo Ferrari’s Biography
- Formula 1 History
5 comments
sooo Enzo himself wanted Agostini to drive for Ferrari!! That’s insane… Man, the history of motorsport is full of surprises.
agostini is a true legend. Always followed his heart, and that’s why he’s the best. You gotta respect that.
Can’t believe Agostini was almost in F1! What a game changer that would’ve been.
It’s always fascinating to look back at what could’ve been. Agostini in a Ferrari would have been a sight to see for sure.
Wow, Agostini could’ve been an F1 star but he chose his passion for bikes. Talk about dedication! love this guy