Rossi’s Unyielding Bitterness Toward Marquez: A Catalyst for Controversy and Triumph in MotoGP’s Latest Saga

Valentino Rossi's ongoing feud with Marc Marquez only serves to empower his main competitor

Valentino Rossi fueling disputes at Ducati is unlikely to achieve the intended outcome…

It's almost surreal that MotoGP is approaching its 10th year since what many consider its most contentious moment. The allegations of conspiracy made by Valentino Rossi against Marc Marquez before the 2015 Malaysian Grand Prix caused a stir that would ultimately transform the series.

The duo's collision during the Sepang Grand Prix led to Rossi receiving a penalty that affected his position in the decisive Valencia championship race. This incident sparked an intense reaction among fans and Rossi's persistent allegations of being wrongfully deprived of the title. From then on, the relationship between Rossi and Marquez was irreparably damaged.

The conclusion of what had been an incredible season was unfortunately marred, casting a shadow over Jorge Lorenzo's ultimate world championship victory.

Over the following years, Marquez and Rossi experienced several more tense moments, though these incidents became less intense as one rider emerged as the clear frontrunner while the other's performance waned. Despite this shift, fans in areas where Rossi is particularly popular still show a strong aversion to Marquez, a sentiment that seems to have little effect on the eight-time world champion.

Rossi maintains that he was unjustly deprived of a 10th world championship, even in retirement. This belief likely fueled the sharp remarks he directed at Ducati during a recent discussion with L’Equipe.

"He admitted he's still trying to grasp the idea of Ducati offering Marc Marquez a factory deal for 2025."

Ducati implemented a unique structure, designed as a pyramid, to facilitate the advancement of novice riders.

"Pecco [Bagnaia] was raised with that expectation, and both [Jorge] Martin and Marco Bezzecchi were anticipating it as well. Then, all of a sudden, Ducati made the decision to introduce Marc."

"It's understandable that [the riders] feel deceived. Suddenly, they find themselves irrelevant, so it's no surprise they view Marquez's selection as a farce."

Marquez stands to gain from Rossi's involvement

Rossi's actions are always deliberate. Throughout his racing days, he skillfully shaped the story to his advantage. This knack for narrative control endeared him to both the press and the public, cementing Rossi's legendary status as the years went by and one by one, his rivals were bested.

His remarks to L'Equipe were intended to provoke Marquez, aiming to unsettle him.

The Rossi team was clearly displeased when Ducati reversed its initial choice to offer Jorge Martin the second official team position, opting instead for Marquez in 2025. Given the known tension between Rossi and Marquez, this conflict was to be expected.

However, this leads to the impression that the reaction from Rossi's team appears to stem from a concern about the ongoing sway Marquez has over the championship.

Rossi has fared quite well due to the changes in the rider market. This movement saw Pramac team up with Yamaha for the upcoming season, which in turn resulted in Rossi's VR46 team securing factory support from Ducati and a GP25 for Fabio Di Giannantonio's campaign in 2025.

Though Ducati might anticipate such remarks, they are bound to create a certain level of discomfort.

Ducati holds Bagnaia in high esteem, as he stands as their most accomplished MotoGP rider to date and the one who brought them their much-desired championships since 2007. Securing his services for an additional two years before the 2024 season kicks off is yet another testament to Ducati's fondness for Bagnaia.

He has also demonstrated a remarkable composure. Following a collision with Marquez at the Portuguese Grand Prix, Bagnaia calmly described the event to journalists as merely a part of racing. Contrarily, Marquez accused Bagnaia of failing to withdraw in time, placing the blame on him. However, akin to Rossi, Marquez's remarks are never just spur-of-the-moment reactions.

Bagnaia tends not to engage in verbal battles through the media. However, Rossi's impact might result in a strained relationship between Bagnaia and Marquez in 2025, should tensions rise between them during races.

Ultimately, we're talking about a racer who, in 2008, had a barrier constructed within the Yamaha team's area to supposedly prevent the transfer of tire information to Lorenzo's section of the garage.

Facing Marquez with the same level of equipment marks the most significant challenge of Bagnaia's MotoGP journey. It's crucial that he doesn't let any lingering resentment from past conflicts affect his decision-making, especially when the competition gets tough.

Marquez thrives on provoking the opposing fans, taking pleasure in their frustration as he celebrates his victories on the podium before them.

If Rossi becomes more involved in any potential disagreements between Marquez and Bagnaia, the latter might seize the chance to embarrass the iconic Italian.

What greater achievement could there be than to match Rossi's impressive record of nine world championships on the very motorcycle he never managed to triumph on, while also surpassing his most celebrated protégé?

Looking at it from a self-interested media viewpoint, having Rossi share his thoughts is undoubtedly beneficial. Furthermore, for MotoGP, it introduces an additional element of fascination to the 2025 championship contest, aiming to attract a broader viewership.

However, Rossi and Bagnaia appear to be the only ones who may face difficulties because of it…

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