In a dramatic escalation of one of MotoGP’s most storied rivalries, Valentino Rossi, the nine-time world champion, has been slapped with a staggering $20 million fine by the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) and barred from participating in a scheduled 2025 World Superbike (WSBK) test following derogatory comments made about Marc Marquez. The remarks, in which Rossi referred to Marquez as “Crashquez” during a recent podcast appearance, have reignited tensions between the two racing legends, prompting swift action from the sport’s governing body. The penalty, one of the harshest in motorsport history, has sparked heated debate across the MotoGP and WSBK communities, with fans and analysts divided over the severity of the punishment and its implications for Rossi’s legacy.

The incident stems from Rossi’s appearance on the Mig Babol podcast, hosted by former VR46 Academy rider Andrea Migno, where the Italian icon made pointed remarks about Marquez’s aggressive riding style and crash-prone reputation. “Crashquez is what he is—always pushing, always risking, sometimes falling,” Rossi said, referencing Marquez’s history of high-profile crashes, including the infamous 2015 Sepang clash that forever altered their relationship. The comment, intended as a jab, was met with backlash from Marquez’s supporters and the broader motorsport community, who accused Rossi of unsportsmanlike conduct and disrespecting a fellow champion. The FIM, citing a violation of its code of conduct regarding respect and sportsmanship, issued the fine and canceled Rossi’s planned WSBK test with Team WRT, where he was set to evaluate a BMW M4 GT3 for a potential 2025 campaign.

Rossi, now 46 and retired from MotoGP since 2021, has transitioned to a successful career in endurance racing while managing the VR46 Racing Team in MotoGP. His comments come at a time when Marquez, riding for the factory Ducati Lenovo Team, is dominating the 2025 MotoGP season, with seven victories in the first eight rounds and a strong lead in the championship. The “Crashquez” moniker, while not new, was perceived as particularly inflammatory given Marquez’s recent resurgence and his efforts to overcome career-threatening injuries. The FIM’s decision to impose such a hefty fine reflects its commitment to fostering a respectful environment in motorsport, especially amid the ongoing tension between Rossi and Marquez, which dates back to the controversial 2015 season when Rossi accused Marquez of sabotaging his title bid.

The penalty has not only financial implications but also disrupts Rossi’s plans to expand his racing portfolio. The canceled WSBK test was seen as a critical step in his preparation for a potential full-time move to the championship in 2026, following his achievements in the FIA World Endurance Championship, including a podium at the 2025 Bathurst 12 Hour. Insiders suggest that Rossi’s team is appealing the FIM’s decision, arguing that the fine is disproportionate and that the “Crashquez” comment was made in jest. However, the FIM’s stance is clear: high-profile figures like Rossi, whose influence extends beyond the track through his VR46 Academy and global fanbase, must uphold the sport’s values.

Marquez, for his part, has remained measured in his response, focusing on his championship campaign. “I race to win, not to answer words,” he said in a press conference ahead of the Dutch Grand Prix, where he secured his 68th career win. His restraint contrasts with the fervor of his supporters, who have taken to social media to condemn Rossi’s remarks. The incident has reignited discussions about their 2015 feud, particularly the Sepang incident where Rossi was penalized for knocking Marquez off his bike, a moment that cost him a shot at ascendancy. Many see Rossi’s latest comments as a continuation of that unresolved animosity, with some speculating that his frustration stems from Marquez’s success with Ducati, a team Rossi struggled with during his tenure in 2011-2012.

The MotoGP paddock is now bracing for the fallout, with Ducati team boss Davide Tardozzi urging both riders to “shake hands” and move on, a sentiment echoed by fans tired of the decade-long feud. However, Rossi’s fine and test ban may deepen the divide, particularly as Marquez chases Rossi’s record of nine world championships. As the 2025 season progresses, the focus will likely shift back to the track, but the “Crashquez” controversy has added another chapter to a rivalry that continues to captivate and polarize the motorsport world.