Monster deal for Valentino Rossi

Valentino Rossi is reported to have signed a big-money deal with American energy drink Monster.

The reigning MotoGP world champion is expected to pocket a cool £2.2m in a two-year deal following the collapse of Kawasaki’s factory squad.

According to reports in America, Rossi could rake in a £450,000 bonus if he successfully defends his MotoGP world crown in 2009, which he won for the sixth time last season.

While the deal might be a boost for racing’s richest ever rider, Rossi’s windfall is a hammer blow to John Hopkins.

The Monster millions initially came to the MotoGP stage with the Californian, but reports say the demise of Kawasaki means the company has switched its allegiance to Fiat Yamaha rider Rossi.