After repairing a strained relationship with Italian fans by leading Gresini to three victories in the MotoGP season last year, Marc Marquez is optimistic about building a “strong relationship” as an official Ducati rider in 2025.
A Complex History
As the long-time rival of Italian MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi, Marquez has often been greeted with hostility during races at Mugello and Misano, two of Italy’s most iconic circuits. The rivalry between the two riders created deep divisions among fans, many of whom openly voiced their displeasure with Marquez through boos and jeers.
However, the dynamic began to shift in 2024 when Marquez made the bold decision to leave his long-time team, Repsol Honda, to race for the Italian manufacturer Ducati under the Gresini Racing banner. While some fans still expressed their resentment—especially during his podium celebrations—others began to show their support, particularly as he helped Gresini secure a dream win at Misano.
Francesco Bagnaia Speaks Out Against Boos
Marquez’s future teammate at Ducati, Francesco Bagnaia, took a stand against the negative reception, emphasizing that no MotoGP rider deserves to face boos from fans. His statement reflected a growing sentiment within the paddock that riders, regardless of rivalries, deserve respect for their achievements on the track.
For his part, Marquez believes the relationship with Italian fans is steadily improving and will continue to do so as he fully integrates into the Ducati family.
Marquez Reflects on Italian Fans and His 2024 Season
“Nothing has changed for me this year,” Marquez told Motorsport.com during the ‘Campioni in Festa’ celebration held in Bologna on Tuesday night. “I’ve always tried to work hard, and I won a race at Misano with Gresini.
“We’ll see if I can achieve good results at Mugello this year, in front of the Italian fans. Ultimately, the relationship with them has had its tough moments, but it keeps getting better.
“I always strive to remain professional and do my job well. Racing for an Italian team like Gresini has helped me regain confidence. Now that I’m racing for an Italian manufacturer, I’m sure we’ll have a great relationship in the future.”
Comparing Past and Present Rivalries
When asked about the differences between competing against legendary riders like Rossi, Casey Stoner, Dani Pedrosa, and Jorge Lorenzo early in his career and the current generation of MotoGP stars, Marquez offered an insightful response.
“The riders I’m competing with now are friendlier!” he said with a smile. “It feels like just yesterday that I arrived in MotoGP as a 20-year-old rookie, inexperienced and wide-eyed. Now, I’m one of the most experienced riders on the grid.
“I really enjoy this. Everyone has their own unique career and story, but all the young riders coming into MotoGP bring incredible determination. We all have to work hard to stay competitive against them—they are incredibly strong.”
Looking Ahead to 2025
As Marquez prepares for his 2025 debut as a full-time Ducati rider, he also faces a personal milestone. The six-time MotoGP champion will celebrate his 32nd birthday on February 17, just weeks before preseason testing begins at Sepang.
With a wealth of experience and a renewed sense of confidence, Marquez is ready to take on new challenges while continuing to rebuild his connection with Italian fans.
