Valentino Rossi said that Márquez’s ability to compete in the future could be an influence and further mentioned the Ducati GP25. Quartararo intervened immediately, surprising the MotoGP fans

Valentino Rossi, one of the living legends of MotoGP, has taken a stand on a controversial episode that coincided with Marc Márquez during a recent test. According to reports, Márquez would have shown the middle finger in a moment of frustration, sparking controversy among riders, fans and insiders. Rossi, known not only for his talent on the track but also for his respectful and charismatic approach, offered direct advice to his former rival, stressing the importance of maintaining respect towards others in the racing world.

“Marc is an incredible rider, one of the best we have ever seen,”  Rossi said in an interview.  “But we must remember that MotoGP is not just about speed and victories. It is also respect, for your colleagues, for the team and for the fans. Gestures like that do no good to anyone.” Rossi’s words immediately found an echo in the paddock, where many sided with his position, seeing the statement as an invitation to bring the focus back to the fundamental values ​​of the sport.

The episode in question would have occurred during a private Ducati test, where Márquez was working on adapting to the new GP25. According to sources close to the paddock, the expression of frustration of the Spanish rider would have been triggered by a technical problem or a situation on the track that interrupted his work. However, the gesture immediately raised criticism, with many who underlined how this behavior could damage the reputation of the rider and the team itself.

Valentino Rossi, now retired from racing but always attentive to the dynamics of the championship, recalled how MotoGP is a global platform followed by millions of fans all over the world.  “Young people look at these riders as role models,”  Rossi added.  “A wrong gesture can send the wrong message. We must always be aware of what we represent.”

It is not the first time that Márquez has found himself at the center of controversy. His career, although studded with extraordinary successes, has often been marked by controversial episodes, including some memorable clashes with Rossi during the famous rivalry. However, the gesture of the middle finger marks a new point of debate, bringing to the fore the question of behavior on and off the track.

Meanwhile, Márquez has sought to downplay the incident, saying it was an impulsive gesture in a moment of stress.  “It was not my intention to disrespect anyone,”  the Spanish rider reportedly said.  “I am human and sometimes emotions take over. I apologize if anyone was offended.”  The apology, however, has not completely quelled the criticism, with some seeing the gesture as a sign of growing confidence for Márquez as he tries to adapt to the new Ducati GP25.

Márquez’s situation is, in fact, far from simple. The move from Honda to Ducati represents a radical change in the rider, who now has to demonstrate that he can compete with many riders on a different bike. Although Márquez praised the GP25 as  “much easier to ride”  than his previous Honda, it is clear that the path to full adaptation will not be without obstacles. Impulsive gestures such as the middle finger could indicate growing internal pressure, as Márquez seeks to demonstrate his value within a new team.

Faced with this difficult issue, Rossi offered advice that goes beyond criticism.  “We all have difficult moments,”  said the Doctor.  “But it is in those moments that we must show that we are great, not only as riders, but also as people. Marc has the talent to do it, but he must remember that respect is fundamental.”

Márquez’s gesture also sparked a wider debate in the paddock about his professionalism and his psychological pressure in the MotoGP world. Fabio Quartararo, speaking about the incident, underlined how difficult it is to stay calm in a highly competitive sport.  “I understand what Marc must feel,”  said the Frenchman.  “The pressure is enormous and everyone wants the maximum. But we need to find better ways to manage stress.”

The 2025 stage is expected to be one of the most competitive in recent years, with riders and teams ready to push themselves to the limit. However, episodes like that of Márquez remind us that Success is not only measured by victories, but also by the way in which challenges are faced. Valentino Rossi, with his wisdom and his example, has offered an important lesson not only for Márquez, but also for the community interaction of MotoGP. As always, the Doctor demonstrates that true greatness is not limited to the track, but extends to everything that the sport represents.