Marc Marquez has donated a large sum of money to help the victims of the recent tragic plane crash in India. “They need this money more than I do,” he said in a recent interview, touching everyone with this noble and extremely humane gesture.

In a heartfelt gesture that has touched the hearts of many, Spanish MotoGP champion Marc Marquez has donated a substantial amount to support the victims of the tragic Air India Flight 171 crash in Ahmedabad, India. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, carrying 242 passengers and crew, crashed into a medical college campus shortly after takeoff on June 12, 2025, killing 241 people on board and several others on the ground. In a recent interview, Marquez expressed his deep empathy for those affected, stating, “They need this money more than I do,” a sentiment that has resonated globally and highlighted his compassion beyond the racetrack.

The catastrophic crash, one of India’s deadliest aviation disasters in decades, left families shattered and communities in mourning. The plane, bound for London Gatwick Airport, went down just seconds after departing Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, striking a densely populated residential area and a dining hall at BJ Medical College. Among the victims were students, families returning from celebrations, and individuals chasing dreams abroad, such as Sahil Patel, a 25-year-old who had won a UK visa lottery. The sole survivor, British national Vishwashkumar Ramesh, escaped through a broken fuselage, a miracle amidst the devastation. The intense flames, fueled by 125,000 liters of aviation fuel, charred most remains beyond recognition, forcing authorities to rely on DNA testing to identify victims, a process that has prolonged the agony for grieving relatives.

Marquez, an eight-time Grand Prix world champion, is no stranger to overcoming adversity. Known as the “Ant of Cervera” for his tenacity, he has battled career-threatening injuries, including multiple surgeries and a diagnosis of diplopia. His recent move to the factory Ducati team in 2025 has seen him reclaim his dominance, with victories at Aragon and San Marino marking his return to the top. Yet, it is his actions off the track that are now drawing widespread admiration. The 32-year-old, who has long been involved in charitable causes, felt compelled to act after learning of the scale of the tragedy in Ahmedabad. His donation, the exact amount of which remains undisclosed, is intended to aid the families of victims and support the rebuilding of the medical college facilities destroyed in the crash.

In his emotional interview, Marquez spoke candidly about the fragility of life, a perspective shaped by his own high-risk career. “When you race, you know every moment is precious,” he said. “Hearing about these families losing their loved ones so suddenly—it breaks your heart. If I can help even a little, it’s my responsibility to do so.” His words have struck a chord, especially in India, where the crash has prompted national mourning and candlelight vigils. The Tata Group, owners of Air India, has pledged $117,000 to each victim’s family and committed to covering medical expenses for the injured, but Marquez’s contribution adds a personal touch from an unexpected source, bridging the worlds of sport and humanitarian aid.

The global response to Marquez’s generosity has been overwhelming. Fans on social media platforms, particularly X, have praised his humility, with many calling him a “champion in every sense.” His fan club in Cervera, Spain, has announced plans to launch a fundraising campaign inspired by his donation, aiming to further support the Ahmedabad community. Meanwhile, the investigation into the crash continues, with the recovered black box offering hope for answers. Indian authorities, alongside experts from the US and UK, are examining possible causes, from mechanical failure to external factors like a bird strike, though no conclusions have been reached.

Marquez’s act of kindness comes at a time when the world is grappling with frequent reminders of life’s unpredictability. His donation not only provides tangible support but also serves as a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have. As Ahmedabad begins the slow process of healing, the gesture of a motorcycle racer from a small Spanish town offers a beacon of hope. “I don’t see this as something extraordinary,” Marquez said modestly. “It’s just what you do when people are suffering.” For the families of Flight 171’s victims, however, his compassion is nothing short of extraordinary, a light in their darkest hour.