The International Motorcycle Federation (FIM) has strongly denied the accusations made by Valentino Rossi, who claimed that the governing body was covering up Marc Márquez’s “unusual” return to form following his injury. Rossi had previously accused the FIM of shielding Márquez from scrutiny after his rapid and seemingly miraculous comeback, which saw the Spanish rider win consecutive MotoGP races after a prolonged recovery period.
In an official statement released to the press, the FIM labeled Rossi’s accusations as “baseless” and emphasized that there was no cover-up regarding Márquez’s recovery. The governing body defended both the medical procedures and the fairness of the processes involved in Márquez’s return to racing.
“The FIM would like to clarify that all of Marc Márquez’s medical treatments and the rehabilitation process were conducted transparently and in accordance with established medical protocols. Any suggestion that there was a cover-up or preferential treatment is without merit,” the statement read. “Marc Márquez’s return to competitive racing was thoroughly assessed and cleared by independent medical professionals before he was allowed to race. There is no evidence to support any claim of manipulation in this process.”
The FIM went on to reiterate that all riders, including Márquez, are subject to the same regulations and oversight, ensuring a level playing field for all competitors. The statement also highlighted that Márquez’s victories were the result of his exceptional skill and determination, rather than any external influence or undue assistance.
Valentino Rossi’s remarks had sparked a firestorm of controversy when he accused the FIM of manipulating the circumstances around Márquez’s recovery to protect their star rider, especially as Márquez’s return seemed unusually swift and effective. Rossi also hinted at a larger issue within the sport, suggesting that the commercial interests tied to Márquez’s popularity might have played a role in the FIM’s decision-making process.
The seven-time MotoGP champion claimed that the rapid recovery and subsequent victories were not in line with the reality of such severe injuries. “It’s unbelievable that someone can return so quickly after such a major injury and perform at this level,” Rossi had stated. “It’s almost as if the FIM is covering up something to make sure Marc stays in the game, because he is so important for the sport.”
Rossi’s allegations have caused a split within the MotoGP paddock. While some fans and critics have rallied behind Rossi, suggesting that his comments reflect a genuine concern for the integrity of the sport, others have dismissed his accusations as an extension of his rivalry with Márquez. Many believe that Rossi’s comments are fueled by frustration, as Márquez’s success has been a source of tension between the two riders, particularly as Rossi’s own career is winding down.
Marc Márquez himself has yet to comment publicly on the controversy, although his supporters have strongly defended him, stressing that his comeback is a testament to his skill and perseverance. Márquez’s team has also echoed the FIM’s position, asserting that the rider’s return was handled in full compliance with medical and sporting regulations.
While Rossi’s accusations have brought attention to Márquez’s return and the transparency of medical decisions in MotoGP, the FIM’s denial has closed the issue for now. The governing body has made it clear that it will not tolerate any unwarranted claims that undermine its credibility or the integrity of the sport.
For now, all eyes are on the upcoming races, as the rivalry between Rossi and Márquez remains one of the most talked-about dynamics in MotoGP. As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see if further tensions arise or if the issue fades into the background of an ever-competitive championship.
