Valentino Rossi Voices Betrayal Felt by Ducati Riders Over Marquez Signing, Calls Decision a ‘Joke

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

"He implies that the selection of Marquez is seen as laughable by many."

MotoGP icon Valentino Rossi has indicated that various Ducati racers "feel deceived" following Ducati's decision to bring Marc Marquez into its official team for the 2025 season.

In a shocking development in the rider market at the beginning of June, Ducati revealed that it had secured Marquez to team up with Francesco Bagnaia at its official team, following the eight-time world champion's decision to turn down a works bike at Pramac.

Ducati initially decided to elevate Martin, but he opted to join Aprilia for the 2025 season after learning about Ducati's change of plans over the Italian Grand Prix weekend.

At that moment, Ducati's choice was believed to have displeased those in Valentino Rossi's circle, as Bagnaia emerged from Rossi's VR46 Academy. Moreover, the seasoned Italian rider had a tense history with Marquez, stemming from multiple confrontations they've had over time.

During a conversation with L’Equipe, Rossi shared his forthright views on the issue.

"I'm still trying to fully grasp it," he started.

"Ducati implemented a unique structure, featuring a hierarchical setup that enabled budding riders to advance."

Pecco was raised in that manner, and Martin along with Marco Bezzecchi were anticipating it too. Then, unexpectedly, Ducati chose to introduce Marc.

"It's understandable for [the riders] to feel deceived. Suddenly, they're deemed irrelevant, so it's no surprise they view Marquez's selection as a mockery."

Rossi is confident that Bagnaia has what it takes to challenge Marquez when they are on comparable bikes in 2025, asserting that Bagnaia doesn't require his presence as a team-mate to validate his prowess as a MotoGP champion.

"Rossi mentioned, 'Pecco is prepared.'"

"He is creating an impact and has successfully elevated standards."

“He has already clinched the world champion title twice and is in the running for a third victory. However, I believe he doesn't require Marc's presence in his corner to demonstrate that he's the top contender.”

This development also resulted in Pramac partnering with Yamaha as a satellite team for 2025, while Rossi's team secured factory Ducati backing for Fabio Di Giannantonio.

Next year, the factory Aprilia team will welcome VR46 protégé Bezzecchi alongside Martin.

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