Just 5 minutes ago, Valentino Rossi gave advice to Bagnaia at the San Marino GP, making the Ducati boss extremely angry and having to respond harshly !!

In a dramatic turn of events at the San Marino Grand Prix, MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi has ignited a firestorm within the Ducati camp with his pointed advice to Francesco Bagnaia, prompting a furious response from Ducati’s top brass. Just five minutes ago, the paddock was abuzz with news of Rossi’s comments, which have not only raised eyebrows but also exposed underlying tensions within the Italian manufacturer’s ranks. The situation has quickly escalated, with Ducati’s leadership stepping in to address the controversy, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown both on and off the track.

The San Marino GP, held at the iconic Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, is a home race for both Rossi and Bagnaia, adding emotional weight to the unfolding drama. Rossi, a nine-time world champion and mentor to Bagnaia through his VR46 Riders Academy, reportedly offered unsolicited advice to the factory Ducati rider, who has been struggling to keep pace with teammate Marc Marquez in the 2025 MotoGP championship. Sources close to the team revealed that Rossi suggested Bagnaia adopt a more aggressive riding style and focus on outmaneuvering Marquez in close-quarters battles, particularly at Misano, where Bagnaia has historically excelled, winning the last three premier class GPs.

Rossi’s remarks, delivered during a candid interview with Italian media, were intended to motivate his protégé but instead struck a nerve with Ducati’s management. The advice was perceived as a critique of the team’s current strategy and Bagnaia’s adaptation to the GP25 bike, which has been a point of contention throughout the season. Bagnaia, currently trailing Marquez by 93 points in the championship standings, has faced challenges with the bike’s front-end feel, despite recent breakthroughs, such as his third-place finish at Aragon after switching to larger 355mm brake discs.

Ducati team boss Davide Tardozzi wasted no time in responding, issuing a scathing statement that has sent shockwaves through the MotoGP community. Tardozzi expressed frustration at Rossi’s interference, emphasizing that the team has been working tirelessly to support Bagnaia’s title bid. “We are sick of hearing outside opinions on how to fix Pecco’s season,” Tardozzi declared. “Valentino is a legend, but he’s not in the garage with us every day. We know what Pecco needs, and we’re fully committed to him. These comments are unhelpful and disruptive at a critical moment.” The sharp rebuke underscores the pressure within Ducati, as they navigate the intense rivalry between Bagnaia and Marquez while striving to maintain team unity.

The controversy comes at a pivotal moment in the 2025 season, with only a handful of races remaining for Bagnaia to close the gap to Marquez. Rossi’s involvement adds another layer of complexity, given his dual role as a mentor and owner of the VR46 Racing Team, a Ducati satellite squad. Some speculate that Rossi’s advice was also a strategic move to bolster VR46’s standing, as the team faces stiff competition from Gresini in the satellite team rankings. However, this has only deepened the rift, with Tardozzi accusing Rossi of prioritizing his own interests over Ducati’s collective goals.

Bagnaia, caught in the crossfire, has remained diplomatic but visibly uncomfortable. Speaking to reporters, he acknowledged Rossi’s guidance but stressed his loyalty to Ducati’s plan. “Vale always has good insights, and I respect him immensely, but I trust my team completely. We’re making progress, and I’m focused on Misano,” Bagnaia said. His measured response contrasts with the heated exchange between Rossi and Tardozzi, highlighting the delicate balance he must maintain as a rider under scrutiny.

The San Marino GP now looms as a make-or-break moment for Bagnaia, not only in his championship fight but also in proving he can rise above the off-track drama. Fans are eagerly awaiting Sunday’s race, where Bagnaia’s performance could either validate Rossi’s advice or solidify Ducati’s faith in their current approach. Meanwhile, Rossi’s comments have reignited debates about his influence in MotoGP, with some praising his passion and others questioning his timing.

As the dust settles on this explosive exchange, one thing is clear: the San Marino GP has become more than just a race. It’s a battleground for egos, strategies, and legacies, with Valentino Rossi’s words casting a long shadow over Ducati’s hopes. Whether Bagnaia can channel the controversy into a victory remains to be seen, but the MotoGP world is watching closely, anticipating the next chapter in this gripping saga.