Valentino Rossi has never liked Marquez’s aggressive methods and he has never done anything to suggest otherwise. After all, there have been numerous skirmishes on the track between the two, often harsh and brutal. One example above all was during the 2018 Argentine GP when the then Honda rider made the Italian slide.
Even though a lot of time has passed since then, the Doctor has not forgotten and when recently questioned by the French newspaper L’Equipe about the current standard-bearer of the Gresini team and future factory Ducati rider, he replied laconically: “I have a clear opinion and I will never change it”.
With a grudge against the champion from Cervera, the 45-year-old then actually criticized Borgo Panigale’s choice for 2025. “I honestly didn’t understand the story since everything seemed done for Martin’s arrival. That said, Bagnaia is ready, he’s a two-time MotoGP world champion and is fighting for his third title. In my opinion, he didn’t need Marc in the garage to show that he was number 1”, was his consideration of the rider from the Marche who then wanted to further sink the knife into the wound.
“The consequence of this move was the farewell of Prima Pramac – he recalled the passage of the Campionti team to Yamaha and the signing of Martinator with Aprilia – And to think that the Emilian company had set in motion an interesting system with a pyramid that allowed young people to progress with the dream of being promoted one day to the factory team. This was what Jorge and Bezzecchi hoped for, but in light of the sudden change of strategy it is obvious that they feel betrayed”, he added.
To conclude, Vale wanted to dedicate a thought to his friend Pecco, an absolute protagonist also in this championship: “He is making the difference and has managed to raise the bar. Personally, I have never doubted his abilities. The Japanese will have a hard time becoming competitive again”.
