In the adrenaline-charged universe of MotoGP, where rivalries fuel the drama both on and off the track, the saga between Valentino Rossi and Marc Márquez has long been the stuff of legend. Their feud, a combustible mix of on-track clashes and off-track barbs, has captivated fans for over a decade. But the latest chapter in this saga doesn’t come from the racers themselves—it comes from Márquez’s girlfriend, Gemma Pinto, who has boldly stepped into the fray. After Márquez’s podium finish at the Argentine Grand Prix, Pinto issued a stern ultimatum to Rossi, demanding an end to his persistent mocking of Márquez with the nickname “Crashquez.” Her words have sent shockwaves through the MotoGP community, reigniting a rivalry that refuses to fade.

The Argentine Grand Prix earlier this month was a triumphant moment for Márquez. After years of battling injuries and a dip in form, the eight-time world champion roared back to form, securing a podium spot in a race that showcased his trademark aggression and skill. Yet, the celebration was overshadowed by Rossi, the retired MotoGP icon turned provocateur, who couldn’t resist a dig. On a recent episode of his popular podcast *Mig Babol*, Rossi referred to Márquez as “Crashquez”—a moniker that’s become a staple of his critique, poking fun at Márquez’s history of high-speed tumbles. Rossi’s tone was lighthearted, but the jab landed heavily, especially with Márquez’s camp. For Pinto, it was the final straw in what she sees as a pattern of relentless mockery.

Gemma Pinto, a Catalan model and influencer who has been dating Márquez since 2023, is no stranger to the spotlight. Often seen cheering from the sidelines, she’s been a quiet but steadfast supporter during Márquez’s rollercoaster career. But Rossi’s latest taunt pushed her to break her silence. In a fiery Instagram post, Pinto wrote, “Enough is enough. Valentino needs to stop with the ‘Crashquez’ nonsense. Marc’s crashes are part of racing—he’s a champion who risks everything. This constant mocking is disrespectful and childish. It’s time to move on.” Her ultimatum didn’t mince words: either Rossi drops the jabs, or she hinted at further escalation, leaving fans speculating about what might come next.

The “Crashquez” nickname isn’t new—it’s been a thorn in Márquez’s side since his early MotoGP days, when his fearless riding style led to spectacular crashes as often as it did victories. Rossi, a nine-time world champion and Márquez’s former idol-turned-nemesis, has wielded it like a weapon, especially since their infamous falling out in 2015. That year, during the Malaysian Grand Prix, an on-track incident saw Rossi accused of forcing Márquez to crash, costing Rossi a shot at the title. The fallout was seismic, splitting the MotoGP fanbase into Team Rossi and Team Márquez factions. Rossi has since retired, but his influence—and his penchant for stirring the pot—remains as strong as ever.

Pinto’s ultimatum has added a fresh layer of intrigue to this enduring rivalry. To Márquez’s supporters, her stance is a justified defense of a rider who’s clawed his way back from career-threatening injuries to reclaim his place among the elite. They argue that Rossi’s mockery belittles Márquez’s resilience and achievements—eight world titles don’t come without risk. “Marc’s crashes are proof of how hard he pushes,” one fan tweeted. “Rossi’s just bitter he couldn’t keep up.” Conversely, Rossi’s loyalists see Pinto’s outburst as an overreaction to harmless banter from a legend who’s earned his right to speak. “Vale’s a showman,” another fan countered. “It’s not personal—it’s entertainment.”

The timing of Pinto’s statement, right after Márquez’s Argentina podium, amplifies its impact. The race was a statement of intent from Márquez, now riding for Ducati after a turbulent stint with Honda. Finishing on the podium at Termas de Río Hondo—a track steeped in history for both him and Rossi, including their notorious 2018 clash—was a symbolic victory. Rossi’s “Crashquez” quip, however, cast a shadow over that moment, prompting Pinto to draw a line in the sand. Her ultimatum raises questions: Will Rossi back off, or will he double down, as he’s often done in the face of confrontation?

This isn’t the first time Pinto has addressed Rossi’s provocations. Last year, after Rossi mocked Márquez’s crash-heavy 2023 season, she subtly clapped back on social media, praising Márquez’s perseverance. But this ultimatum marks a shift—she’s no longer content to stay on the sidelines. It’s a bold move that could escalate tensions further, especially if Márquez continues his resurgence and Rossi keeps the commentary flowing. Some speculate Pinto’s words might even draw a response from Rossi’s inner circle, including his VR46 Academy riders, who idolize their mentor.

As of March 21, 2025, Rossi has yet to reply publicly, leaving the MotoGP world buzzing with anticipation. The Italian, now focused on his racing team and occasional four-wheel ventures, has a knack for turning feuds into theater—will he let this slide, or craft another memorable retort? For Márquez, the focus remains on the track, but Pinto’s intervention has ensured the off-track drama stays front and center. In a sport where rivalries are as vital as horsepower, her ultimatum has turned a podium finish into a new battleground, proving that the Rossi-Márquez saga still has plenty of fuel left to burn.