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From idolising Valentino Rossi, to becoming friends with the nine-time world champion, to then having one of the more heated rivalries in MotoGP history, here’s a look back at what went wrong between Marc Marquez and the adored Italian.
From idolizing Valentino Rossi to forming a friendship with the nine-time world champion, and eventually sparking one of the most intense rivalries in MotoGP history, Marc Marquez and the adored Italian had a tumultuous relationship.
Both riders enjoyed immense success in the premier class, with Marquez mainly dominating their battles during their time on track together, solidifying their status as the sport’s biggest icons, even after Rossi’s retirement in 2021 and Marquez’s recent struggles.
Their competitive desire led to difficult moments on the track, including a memorable incident at Malaysia that left a lasting impact on their relationship.
Despite their on-track battles, Marquez always expressed respect and admiration for Rossi, even in the midst of heated competition between them.
The turning point came in 2015 when Rossi’s attempt to secure his eighth MotoGP title intensified the rivalry, culminating in the controversial clash at Sepang that ultimately cost Rossi a shot at the championship.
While the incident sparked controversy and heated debates, it remains a significant chapter in the complex relationship between two of motorcycle racing’s greatest talents.
