The 2025 Italian Grand Prix at Mugello was not just another race; it was a seismic moment in MotoGP history, as Marc Marquez delivered a masterclass performance to claim his 93rd career victory, his first at Mugello since 2014. The win, a landmark achievement for the eight-time world champion, sent shockwaves through the motorsport world, but it was a post-race social media message from Marquez’s girlfriend, Gemma Pinto, that truly set the internet ablaze. Her provocative statement, “The land of Rossi has been taken by Marc Marquez,” reignited discussions about Marquez’s rivalry with Italian legend Valentino Rossi, drawing both applause and backlash from fans.
Marquez’s triumph at Mugello was a statement of intent. Riding for the factory Ducati Lenovo Team in his first season after moving from Gresini Ducati, the Spaniard showcased his trademark aggression and precision. Starting from a less-than-ideal position due to a launch control mishap in the sprint race, Marquez battled through the field, engaging in a thrilling duel with reigning champion Pecco Bagnaia. His victory, celebrated with a salute to the Italian fans, marked his return to dominance at a circuit where Rossi, a nine-time world champion, had historically reigned supreme. For Marquez, this win was not just about points; it was about proving he could conquer a track that has long been a stronghold for Rossi and his passionate fanbase.
Gemma Pinto, a Spanish model and influencer with over 317,000 Instagram followers, has been a visible presence at Marquez’s races, often seen cheering from the paddock. Her relationship with Marquez, which became public in 2023, has been a focal point for fans and media alike, especially given Marquez’s previously private personal life. Following the Italian GP, Pinto took to Instagram to share a photo of Marquez celebrating on the podium, accompanied by her now-infamous caption. The message, a bold nod to Marquez’s victory on what many consider Rossi’s home turf, was seen by some as a playful jab and by others as a provocative taunt, given the storied and contentious history between Marquez and Rossi.
The rivalry between Marquez and Rossi dates back to 2015, when tensions boiled over during the Malaysian Grand Prix. Rossi accused Marquez of deliberately interfering in his championship battle with Jorge Lorenzo, culminating in the infamous “Sepang Clash,” where contact between the two led to Marquez crashing and Rossi receiving a penalty. The incident fractured their once-cordial relationship, with Rossi later claiming Marquez fought to make him lose the title, a sentiment he reiterated as recently as 2024. The Mugello circuit, where Rossi has won seven times, remains a symbolic battleground for his fans, many of whom have booed Marquez in past races due to this feud. Pinto’s comment, therefore, struck a nerve, reigniting debates about sportsmanship, legacy, and loyalty in MotoGP.
Social media erupted in response to Pinto’s post. Marquez supporters praised her for her boldness, seeing it as a celebration of his resurgence after years of injury and struggles with Honda. “Marc is back, and Gemma’s just saying what we’re all thinking!” one fan wrote on X. Conversely, Rossi’s loyal fanbase, known for their fervor, took offense, with some calling the comment disrespectful to a motorsport icon. “Rossi made Mugello what it is. This is uncalled for,” another user posted. The controversy even caught the attention of Ducati team boss Davide Tardozzi, who has previously urged Marquez and Rossi to reconcile, noting that the booing of Marquez by Italian fans had lessened in 2025 but was still evident after the sprint race.
Pinto’s statement also highlighted her growing influence in the MotoGP world. Beyond her role as Marquez’s partner, she has carved out a niche as a fashion and lifestyle influencer, often sharing glimpses of their life together. Her Italian language test with Pecco Bagnaia’s wife, Domizia Castagnini, earlier in the season showcased her efforts to integrate into the Ducati family, yet her latest comment suggests she’s unafraid to stir the pot. For Marquez, who has faced criticism from Rossi’s camp and even personal attacks from figures like Alex Teixidor, Pinto’s ex-boyfriend, her outspoken support adds another layer to his narrative as a polarizing yet undeniably talented rider.
As Marquez hunts for his ninth world championship in 2025, his Mugello victory and Pinto’s viral message have cemented his status as a force to be reckoned with. Whether Pinto’s words were a calculated jab or a spontaneous burst of pride, they have ensured that Marquez’s triumph resonates far beyond the track, keeping the MotoGP world buzzing with debate and anticipation for what’s next.
