The world of MotoGP is once again at the center of a controversy that transcends the racetrack and enters the personal realm. Gemma Pinto, the partner of Spanish rider Marc Márquez, has burst onto the scene with a forceful ultimatum directed at Italian legend Valentino Rossi, demanding that he cease his frequent mocking criticism of Márquez, whom Rossi has disparagingly nicknamed “the son of the FIM.” This comment, which alludes to the alleged protection of Márquez by the International Motorcycling Federation (FIM), has rekindled a long-standing rivalry that seemed to have subsided following Rossi’s retirement in 2021. Pinto’s statement, published via an Instagram story in July 2025, has generated a whirlwind of reactions on social media and among motorcycling fans.

Gemma Pinto, a 27-year-old Catalan influencer with a degree in Advertising and Public Relations, has established herself as a public figure since making her relationship with Márquez official in May 2023. The couple, who live together in Madrid, have shared moments of their private lives on social media, from romantic trips to celebrating Márquez’s victories, such as his recent triumph at the Aragón Grand Prix after 1,043 days without a win. However, the couple’s happiness has been marred by Rossi’s repeated references to the nickname “the son of the FIM,” a phrase that originated in 2015 after the controversial Sepang incident, when Rossi accused Márquez of favoring Jorge Lorenzo in the title fight. According to Pinto, these criticisms, repeated in recent interviews and informal chats, have crossed a line by persistently ridiculing her partner.

Pinto’s ultimatum, while not specifying a concrete action, has been interpreted as a clear warning to Rossi to moderate his comments. In her message, the influencer expressed her frustration at what she considered a personal attack disguised as a joke, underlining the emotional impact these words have on Márquez, who currently leads the 2025 championship with 233 points and eight Grand Prix wins. Pinto’s statement has found resonation among Márquez’s followers, who on platforms such as X have condemned Rossi for reopening past wounds. However, fans of Rossi, known for his charisma and his legacy of nine world titles, argue that his comments are part of his provocative style and should not be taken too seriously.

The rivalry between Márquez and Rossi is one of the most iconic in MotoGP, marked by clashes on and off the track. The 2015 Sepang incident, followed by Rossi’s penalty and subsequent championship defeat, left a rift that was never fully healed. Although Rossi retired from MotoGP, his presence in motorsport and his comments on outlets like DAZN have kept the tension alive. In a recent interview, Rossi joked again about Márquez’s alleged influence on FIM decisions, prompting a reaction from Pinto. Sources close to Márquez, according to Mundo Deportivo, indicate that the rider prefers not to respond directly, focusing on his season with Ducati, but Pinto’s public support reflects the strength of their relationship.

The impact of this episode goes beyond the sporting sphere, touching on issues of respect and responsibility for public figures. Pinto, who has faced her share of media scrutiny, including criticism from her ex-boyfriend Alex Teixidor in 2024, has proven to be a pillar for Márquez, supporting him through key moments such as his transition from Honda to Gresini and now to the Ducati Lenovo Team. Her ultimatum to Rossi not only defends her partner but also highlights her growing influence in the MotoGP world, where riders’ partners, such as Rossi’s wife Francesca Novello, have also been in the spotlight.

As the 2025 season progresses, with Márquez leading ahead of rivals such as Francesco Bagnaia and Jorge Martín, the focus is on whether Rossi will respond to Pinto’s ultimatum or remain silent. The FIM, for its part, has not commented on the allegations of favoritism, but the controversy could fuel the debate about fairness in motorcycling. For Pinto and Márquez, this episode is a reminder of the challenges of living under public scrutiny, but also of their commitment to each other in a world where speed and excitement go hand in hand.