The Italian plays a judge in Italy’s Masterchef TV show, his ranch hosting competitors from the popular series.

Valentino Rossi is a rider with many interests and passions, this week he was in Barcelona for the launch of the new 2016 M1 but he was also at the table of his ranch, judging Tavullia cuisine. The nine-time World Champion was called to assume the role of a judge on Masterchef Italy, a reality show in which competitors and aspiring cooks compete with the dream of becoming a famous chef.

The Movistar Yamaha MotoGP team rider was involved in the episode, which will air January 21st on Sky One HD Italy. Rossi opened his famous dirt track ranch to participants of the show and joined the usual judges Bruno Barbieri, Carlo Cracco, Antonio Canavacciulo and catering manager Joe Bastianic in tasting a variety of dishes.

The challenge divided the 14 contestants into two teams, their goal to prepare the best lunch possible for 40 people at Rossi’s ranch. The menu will consist of several Italian classics such as grilled meat, bruschetta, salads and vegetables. Meanwhile the guests will consists of VR46 Academy riders and the Team Sky Racing VR46 riders, familiar to all MotoGP™ fans.