Marco Bezzecchi
Marc Marquez was whistled after his victories at the Italian Grand Prix earlier this season. Ducati are therefore naturally apprehensive about the reception he’ll receive at Misano next month.
There was some hope that Marquez’s move to Ducati, an Italian team, would quell the hostility among sections of the Italian fanbase. But there were audible jeers after he won the Sprint and the main Grand Prix at Mugello.
Davide Tardozzi angrily gestured to the crowd, reminding them that Marquez was wearing Ducati red. But while some fans applauded, many are still embittered by his intense rivalry with Valentino Rossi.
If he maintains his current win streak, Marquez will be going for nine in a row at the San Marino Grand Prix (12-14 September), with the world championship coming into view. But he was booed there last year after winning for Gresini, and Ducati are taking action to try and prevent a repeat.
Michele Pirro says boos for Marc Marquez would be disrespectful to Ducati staff
Ducati test rider Michele Pirro posted a video from the Misano pit lane on Tuesday evening. He pleaded with the fans who have bought tickets to be respectful.
Even if they don’t like Marquez, he says they should honour the Ducati staff who are working ‘behind the scenes’. The Bologna Bullets have taken 22 victories from a possible 26 this year.
Previously, Francesco Bagnaia has told spectators to stop booing Marquez. Ducati are clearly hoping that won’t be necessary this time.
Marquez’s rivalry with Rossi exploded during the 2015 season after The Doctor accused him of trying to help Jorge Lorenzo win the title. The two riders still aren’t on speaking terms.
“We are in the middle of the summer down here at the Misano circuit, and the work continues to give the Ducati riders the best bike,” Pirro said.
“Therefore, it is right that when a Ducati wins, whatever colour it is, to celebrate, because behind this project there are many working behind the scenes. It’s right to celebrate, because in the end we all win, and above all, forza Ducati.”
Marc Marquez’s crew chief explains why he’s anything but a villain
Marquez and Rossi didn’t acknowledge one another at the Austrian GP last weekend. Dorna footage captured their awkward encounter in the pit lane.
It’s worth noting that Marquez has tried to avoid boos with diplomatic answers in interviews. He can replace Rossi as MotoGP’s oldest champion this year and match his premier-class title haul, but he’s downplayed the significance of these achievements.
Ducati crew chief Marco Rigamonti says it’s ‘impossible’ to dislike Marquez after getting to know him. He’s in awe of his passion for MotoGP.
The 32-year-old has turned the 2025 season into a procession by opening up a 142-point championship lead. It’s shaping up to be his most dominant year yet.
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