Francesco Bagnaia, the reigning MotoGP champion, recently made a statement that has sparked debate among motorcycling fans. In a candid conversation with the media, Bagnaia shared his experiences on the track against two of the greatest riders of all time: Marc Marquez and Valentino Rossi. His words have sparked curiosity, admiration and, as expected, some controversy. Bagnaia said that, after racing against both of them, he is convinced he knows who is the strongest of the two.
Speaking about his childhood idol Valentino Rossi, Bagnaia was not short of praise. “Valentino is much more than just a rider,” he said. “He is an icon, someone who changed the history of this sport and inspired generations of riders, including me. I remember the first time I raced against him I was intimidated. It was like chasing a living legend, someone who has a huge presence both on and off the track.” However, when asked to choose who was the most difficult to face between Rossi and Marquez, Bagnaia didn’t hesitate too long: “Marc is the most challenging rider. His aggression, his natural talent and his ability to push the bike beyond the limits make him unique. When you are on the track with him, you cannot afford a moment of distraction. He is always there, ready to seize every opportunity.”
Bagnaia continued to explain how the difference between the two is not so much in the results, but in the way they approach the races. “Valentino is methodical, calculating. Every move is considered, every choice is made with incredible attention to detail. Marc, on the other hand, is instinctive, almost wild. He is willing to risk everything, even in situations where other riders would be more cautious. This is what makes him so dangerous and, at the same time, fascinating as an opponent.”
Recounting some memorable moments from his races against Rossi and Marquez, Bagnaia highlighted the diversity of their personalities on the track. “With Valentino, there was always a sort of mutual respect. Even when we were fighting for positions, I knew he would never do something extreme to put me in difficulty. With Marc, it’s different. I remember a race in Aragón where he attempted an impossible overtaking in a very tight corner. He almost touched my rear wheel, but he managed to pass. This is Marc Marquez: a rider who knows no limits.”
Despite the differences between the two, Bagnaia made it clear that both have had a fundamental impact on his career and his growth as a rider. “From Valentino I learned patience and the ability to adapt. He is a master at understanding when it is the right time to attack. Marc, on the other hand, taught me not to be afraid to take risks. Watching him race, I understood that sometimes you have to get out of your comfort zone to achieve extraordinary results.”
Bagnaia also spoke about the legacy that these two champions will leave in the world of motorcycling. “Valentino has taken this sport to a whole new level, not only in terms of results, but also in the way he has built a connection with the fans. Marc, on the other hand, represents a new generation, a rider who has changed the way we see competition. Both are indispensable to understand what it really means to be great in MotoGP.”
Closing the speech, Bagnaia expressed gratitude for having had the chance to race against both of them. “Not all riders have this opportunity. I consider myself lucky. Valentino was my childhood hero, and Marc is the rival who pushed me to improve every day. Even if I choose Marc as the most challenging on the track, the respect I have for Valentino is immense. It would not have been possible for me to get where I am today without the influence of both of them.”
Bagnaia’s words have gone around the world, sparking debates among Rossi and Marquez fans. Some argue that it is impossible to make a direct comparison between two such different riders, while others applaud Bagnaia for his honesty. One thing is certain: with statements like these, Bagnaia continues to demonstrate not only that he is a champion on the track, but also a passionate and thoughtful spokesperson for his sport.
