In a revealing and candid exclusive interview, Italian MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi has once again ignited the flames of rivalry with Spanish star Marc Marquez. Known for his sharp wit and competitive spirit, Rossi took the opportunity to issue a mocking statement aimed at Marquez, dubbing him “Crashquez” and suggesting that the younger rider does not deserve to be compared to him. This bold remark adds another chapter to the long-standing tension between the two riders that has captivated the MotoGP community for years.

The two riders have been at the center of many memorable battles on the track, with both competitors showing an intense desire to win. However, their relationship has been marred by controversy, with moments of tension and on-track incidents that have left fans and pundits divided. While Rossi has built a legacy as one of the most successful and respected riders in the history of the sport, Marquez, with his exceptional talent and multiple championships, has become his natural rival in recent seasons.

During the interview, Rossi, who retired from MotoGP in 2021, did not shy away from addressing his relationship with Marquez. Reflecting on their past encounters, Rossi referred to Marquez’s penchant for aggressive riding and frequent crashes, which often resulted in high-profile incidents. The Italian used the term “Crashquez” in an almost dismissive tone, pointing out Marquez’s tendency to make mistakes under pressure. “He has a lot of talent, but he doesn’t have the maturity to back it up,” Rossi said. “He crashes more than any rider I have ever seen. I don’t think a rider who crashes as much deserves to be compared to someone like me. ‘Crashquez’ does not deserve me.”

Rossi’s words come at a time when Marquez has been struggling to regain his former dominance in the sport. After several injuries, including a broken arm that plagued his 2020 and 2021 seasons, Marquez has been working hard to return to his championship-winning form. However, the Spaniard has faced criticism for his aggressive style, which has sometimes led to crashes and accidents that have affected his performance. Rossi’s comment suggests that, in his eyes, Marquez’s on-track antics have hindered his ability to cement his legacy as one of the greatest in the sport.

The rivalry between Rossi and Marquez began in 2015, when Marquez’s aggressive riding and controversial moves during the season sparked outrage in the MotoGP paddock, especially after an infamous incident during the Malaysian Grand Prix. This clash was followed by a series of tense moments, with both riders exchanging barbs in the media. Rossi’s frustrations were apparent when he accused Marquez of deliberately interfering in his title battle with Jorge Lorenzo. The fallout from that year has lingered, with the two continuing to trade jabs both on and off the track.

Despite Rossi’s criticism, there is no denying the extraordinary talent that Marc Marquez possesses. The 8-time world champion has an impressive record, including numerous victories and titles, which cement his status as one of the sport’s most gifted riders. However, Rossi’s statement serves as a reminder of the fierce rivalry and personal animosity that still exists between the two men.

Rossi’s remarks will undoubtedly be met with a response from Marquez, who has always been known for his competitive nature. In the world of MotoGP, where rivalries are often intense and personal, the ongoing tension between Rossi and Marquez is just another example of the fiery passion that drives these athletes to push the limits of their abilities.

As both riders continue to carve their legacies in MotoGP, fans can expect this rivalry to be a central talking point for years to come. Rossi’s mocking statement may only deepen the divide between the two, but it serves as a reminder that in the world of motorsport, there is no such thing as a friendly rivalry. Only the desire to win and to assert dominance on and off the track.