MotoGP: Tensions Renewed Between Márquez and Rossi Following Comments from Italian’s Close Associate

There is a fierce rivalry brewing between the two factions of motorcycle riders, and it appears to have been reignited in recent weeks. Marc Márquez has started the season with an impressive performance while riding for Ducati, having just celebrated his milestone of 90 victories in MotoGP after a triumphant outing in the Argentine Grand Prix. The eight-time world champion is on a clear path to continue his dominance in the early 2025 season, having already claimed victories across various circuits. However, while Márquez has equaled the legendary Ángel Nieto in terms of the all-time wins list, he still has work to do to surpass Valentino Rossi’s remarkable tally of 115 wins and Giacomo Agostini’s incredible record of 122 wins.

Uccio Salucci’s Controversial Comments

Uccio Salucci, the team manager of Ducati VR46 and a close friend of Valentino Rossi, has recently stirred the pot with his comments regarding Márquez. This rivalry between the two camps dates back to the 2015 Malaysian Grand Prix, an event that significantly strained relations between them. Further escalating tensions, Salucci nearly confronted Márquez physically in 2018 after a controversial incident where Márquez took Rossi out during the Argentine GP. Recently, though, Salucci voiced his thoughts about the Spanish racer, emphatically expressing his hope that Márquez does not outpace his dear friend Rossi.

Will Márquez Surpass Rossi?

“He has achieved 90 wins, and I’m glad for him. His next target is Valentino’s 115 victories, which is a milestone he has the potential to reach, given the quality of his bike and team,” Salucci stated in an interview with GPOne following the Argentine Grand Prix last Sunday. “I only hope he does not surpass that mark, but deep down, I believe he will,” he added. Marc Márquez is keenly aware that overtaking Rossi’s impressive record is within reach, and he is undoubtedly determined to do so in the coming years.

The Ongoing Rivalry

The rivalry between Márquez and Rossi has transcended mere competition; it represents a clash of personalities and fans, each side passionately rooting for their hero. The stakes have never been higher as these legendary riders continue to add chapters to their captivating saga, with fans eagerly anticipating every duel on the track. As the 2025 MotoGP season progresses, the tension is palpable, with both riders pushing their limits to secure their legacies in the annals of motorcycle racing history.

Conclusion

In summary, the battle for supremacy in the world of MotoGP is as intense as ever, with the rivalry between the Márquez and Rossi camps reaching new heights. As Márquez closes in on Valentino Rossi’s victory record, the excitement surrounding this season promises not only thrilling races but also dramatic shifts in the rankings.