🔴 FIM Cancels Legend Title After Valentino Rossi’s Controversial Statement on Marc Marquez — Ducati Boss Responds with 7 Words, Sparks Boycott Threat

🏍️ In a stunning announcement, the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) has officially revoked Valentino Rossi’s “Legend” status following his explosive remarks about Marc Marquez during the 2025 MotoGP season. Rossi, who had long held the honorary title for his contributions to the sport, accused Marquez of “manipulating races to serve Ducati’s agenda,” reigniting a feud that dates back to their infamous 2015 clash in Malaysia. FIM cited “conduct unbecoming of a legend” and “repeated inflammatory statements” as the basis for the decision.

🔥 The fallout was immediate and intense. Rossi, visibly enraged, called the decision “a disgrace to MotoGP history” and hinted at a possible boycott of future FIM-sanctioned events. His team, VR46 Racing, issued a statement condemning the move and demanding transparency. Fans across Italy rallied in support of Rossi, with social media ablaze under hashtags like #JusticeForVale and #FIMDisgrace. Meanwhile, Marquez remained silent, fueling speculation that Ducati had pressured FIM behind the scenes.

💬 Ducati boss Davide Tardozzi broke his silence with a cryptic seven-word response: “Time to move forward, not backward anymore.” The statement, delivered during a press briefing at Mugello, was seen as a subtle jab at Rossi’s refusal to let go of past grievances. Tardozzi’s words sparked outrage among Rossi loyalists, who accused Ducati of orchestrating a campaign to erase Rossi’s legacy. Tardozzi later clarified that his comment was meant to encourage reconciliation, not provoke.

🚨 With tensions at an all-time high, the MotoGP paddock is bracing for a turbulent second half of the season. Rossi’s threat to boycott could destabilize the championship, especially with VR46 Racing playing a pivotal role in rider development. FIM has yet to respond to the backlash, while Ducati insists it had no influence over the decision. As the sport grapples with its most divisive moment in years, one thing is clear: the legend of Valentino Rossi may be under siege, but his voice remains louder than ever.