Marc Márquez AWARE that he will compete for the region of Catalonia, not Spain, once MotoGP is selected as the Olympic sport

In a groundbreaking announcement, MotoGP star Marc Márquez has said he will represent Catalonia, not Spain, if MotoGP becomes an Olympic sport. Márquez, one of the most important riders in MotoGP history, said: “It’s my choice and I’m proud of where I come from. If the opportunity arises in the Olympic Games, I’ll race for Catalonia.”

The bold statement brings relief to Márquez’s deep connection to his Catalan roots, amid ongoing political and cultural debate over the region’s identity within Spain. While MotoGP has yet to be confirmed as an Olympic sport, the possibility of its inclusion has raised questions about the national representation of athletes from regions with strong independence movements, such as Catalonia.

This measure has already provoked reactions encountered both in the MotoGP community and throughout Spain. Some fanatics praised Marquez for his pride in his heritage, while others found it a controversial position that could deepen the division between Spain and Catalonia.

Márquez’s statement is not only significant in the world of sports, as it is also linked to the broader political landscape of Spain, where discussions about Catalonia’s independence have been contentious. His decision to represent Catalonia, should MotoGP become an Olympic sport, will likely fuel more conversations on the athlete card about political and regional identities.

As MotoGP fans wait to see the sport added to the Olympic roster, Marquez’s selection has already caused a stir, potentially setting a precedent for other athletes with strong regional affiliations.