The 1986 World Cup winner offered a touching message to the nine-time world champion labelling him as “the angel that flies all around the world”.
Rossi has touched the hearts of millions throughout the globe since making his MotoGP debut in 2000.
Five consecutive titles from 2001-2005 thrust him into the spotlight and his popularity and worldwide admiration has soared ever since.
Maradona was joined by stars from an array of sporting arenas to pay tribute to The Doctor in a video aired on MotoGP’s social media platforms.
Maradona’s full message read: “You will always be the angel that flies all around the world.”
Spanish World Cup winner Andres Iniesta said: “Many happy returns on this special day, and to take a moment to say congratulations for your career and everything you’re doing in the world of motorbikes.”
Five-time MotoGP world champion Mick Doohan said: “I look forward to watching you win many races throughout the year as a 40-year-old.”
Both former and current members of the MotoGP grid also took time out to wish the Italian happy birthday including Jorge Lorenzo, Andrea Dovizioso, Sete Gibernau and Dani Pedrosa.
Rossi is preparing for his 20th year in the premier class as he chases down a record-equalling tenth world championship.
That record is currently held by Giacomo Agostini who was hugely successful in the 1960’s and 70’s.
The now 76-year-old took time out to joke with Rossi about his landmark birthday.
He said: “You’re not just catching me in the number of Grands Prix but also in years”.
Rossi is readying himself for the season’s opening round in Qatar which takes place in March.
The Italian went winless last season for the first time since 2012 and the first time ever on a Yamaha.
He is not fancied to mount a challenge this year but his reputation suggests it would be a bold accusation to rule him out.
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