Reigning six time MotoGP world champion Valentino Rossi may be known as 'The Doctor', but fellow Yamaha rider James Toseland can also lay claim to the moniker following the announcement that he is to receive an Honorary Doctorate from Sheffield Hallam University.

"I am delighted to have accepted an Honorary Degree from Sheffield Hallam University at such an exciting time in my career, and look forward to having the additional support of the University's staff and students this weekend,” said Toseland at Donington Park.

The title will be officially bestowed at a graduation ceremony in November.

"I will probably be more nervous in front of 1500 people at the graduation ceremony in November than I am when I'm on the circuit in front of almost 100,000 spectators, but I'm sure it will be a great day," added the double World Superbike champion.

Rossi initially used the name 'The Doctor' to reflect his level of expertise on the racetrack, but it was given official weight in 2005 when he received an Honorary Doctorate in communications from the University of Urbino.