In a scathing critique that has ignited debates across the MotoGP community, Valentino Rossi, the legendary nine-time world champion, has publicly criticized the organizers of the German Grand Prix for their handling of safety concerns following a series of alarming crashes during the event held on July 13, 2025, at the Sachsenring circuit. The Italian icon, now retired from competitive racing but still a prominent figure in the sport, voiced his concerns after eight riders failed to finish the race, with multiple incidents linked to the track’s challenging layout and conditions. His comments, made earlier today at 1:32 PM +07 on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, underscore a growing unease about rider safety in the premier class.

The German GP weekend was marred by a high attrition rate, with only ten of the eighteen starters completing the race. Notable crashes included Fabio Di Giannantonio, Marco Bezzecchi, and Johann Zarco, all of whom fell at the notoriously tricky Turn 1, a corner that has repeatedly proven hazardous due to its downhill braking zone and limited visibility. The situation escalated when Joan Mir and Ai Ogura collided, adding to the chaos. Rossi, reflecting on the incidents, pointed to the track’s design and the organizers’ failure to address persistent safety issues as the root cause. “The crashes are happening too often, and it’s not just bad luck,” he remarked, suggesting that the Sachsenring’s layout exacerbates the risk, especially under variable weather conditions that plagued the weekend.

Rossi’s criticism draws from his extensive experience, including a near-miss incident during the 2020 Austrian GP, where he narrowly avoided a catastrophic collision. He has long advocated for greater respect among riders and improved circuit safety, a stance reinforced by the German GP’s outcome. The 2025 race saw riders struggling with tire temperature and grip, compounded by a green track surface following Saturday’s rain. This combination, Rossi argues, places undue pressure on competitors, leading to unavoidable accidents and, in some cases, serious injuries. While no riders suffered life-threatening harm this time, the frequency of crashes has raised red flags about the circuit’s suitability for modern MotoGP machinery, which can exceed 300 km/h.

The Sachsenring, known for its tight, twisty layout, has historically been a favorite among fans and riders, including Marc Márquez, who clinched his ninth victory there on Sunday. However, Rossi’s comments challenge the narrative of the track’s charm, suggesting that its dangers outweigh its appeal. He has called for a reevaluation of the circuit’s configuration, echoing past concerns about Turn 1 and Turn 3, where sightlines and braking zones have been criticized. Despite modifications made after previous incidents, such as the 2020 Austrian GP crash, Rossi believes the measures remain insufficient, accusing organizers of prioritizing spectacle over safety.

The MotoGP community is divided on the issue. Some riders, like Márquez, have praised the track’s challenge, while others, including current safety officer Franco Uncini, have acknowledged the need for ongoing improvements. Rossi’s intervention adds weight to the debate, given his stature and history of surviving high-speed incidents, such as the 2010 Mugello crash that fractured his leg. His retirement in 2021 has not diminished his influence, and his latest remarks are likely to pressure Dorna Sports and the FIM to act. Fans on social media have echoed his sentiments, with many calling for a review of the German GP’s future on the calendar.

For now, the focus shifts to the next round at Brno, but the fallout from Rossi’s critique will linger. Yamaha, Aprilia, and other teams affected by the crashes are expected to join the conversation, potentially pushing for technical or regulatory changes. Rossi’s call to action highlights a critical juncture for MotoGP, where the thrill of racing must be balanced against the well-being of its athletes. As the sport evolves, his voice serves as a reminder of the human cost behind every lap, urging organizers to prioritize safety before the next race weekend.