Valentino Rossi Criticizes Ducati’s Marquez Signing: Riders Feel ‘Betrayed’ and Call Decision a ‘Joke

Valentino Rossi indicates that riders "feel let down" by Ducati's decision to sign Marquez.

"It's no shock to me that they view Marquez's selection as a farce."

Valentino Rossi, a MotoGP icon, has indicated that multiple Ducati riders "feel let down" by Ducati's decision to bring Marc Marquez onto its factory team for the 2025 season.

In a surprising turn of events in the rider market at the beginning of June, Ducati revealed that it had secured a deal with Marquez to team up with Francesco Bagnaia in its factory squad, following the eight-time world champion's decision to decline a works bike offer from Pramac.

The decision came after Ducati initially chose to elevate Martin, who then decided to join Aprilia for the 2025 season upon learning of Ducati's reversal of plans during the Italian Grand Prix weekend.

At the time, Ducati’s choice was believed to have caused discontent among Valentino Rossi's supporters. Bagnaia, who emerged from Rossi's VR46 Academy, was part of the situation, while the seasoned Italian rider had a tense relationship with Marquez due to several past altercations.

During a conversation with L’Equipe, Rossi shared a critical perspective on the issue.

"I haven't fully grasped it yet," he started.

Ducati implemented a unique structure, resembling a pyramid, which enabled young riders to advance through its ranks.

“That’s the upbringing Pecco had, and both Martin and Marco Bezzecchi were also anticipating it. Then, out of the blue, Ducati chose to bring Marc onboard.

"It's understandable that the riders feel let down. Suddenly, they don't matter anymore, so it's no surprise they see the decision to choose Marquez as a farce."

Rossi is confident that Bagnaia can compete with Marquez on the same equipment in 2025 and feels he doesn't need Marquez as a teammate to demonstrate his worth as a MotoGP champion.

"Pecco is prepared," Rossi mentioned.

"He is creating a positive impact and has successfully set a higher standard."

“He has won the world championship twice and is now aiming for a third title. However, I believe he didn’t need Marc's presence to demonstrate that he is the best.”

The consequences of this situation resulted in Pramac entering a partnership with Yamaha as a satellite team for the year 2025. Meanwhile, Rossi's team will receive factory Ducati backing for rider Fabio Di Giannantonio.

Bezzecchi, who is under the mentorship of VR46, will team up with Martin at the official Aprilia squad next season.

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