MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi has openly criticized Ducati’s controversial decision to sign Marc Marquez for their factory team, calling the move a potential “disruptor” in the sport. Rossi, who has had a storied rivalry with Marquez throughout his career, didn’t hold back in his assessment, questioning the implications of Ducati bringing in such a polarizing figure.

Speaking candidly in a recent interview, Rossi expressed his concerns about how Marquez’s aggressive riding style and personality could impact team dynamics and the sport overall. “Marquez has always been a kẻ gây rối [troublemaker] on and off the track. He’s incredibly talented, but I don’t see how this partnership will benefit Ducati in the long term,” Rossi stated.

Rossi’s remarks stem from the intense history between him and Marquez, which has been marked by high-profile clashes and incidents that shaped the modern era of MotoGP. The infamous fallout during the 2015 season still lingers in the memories of fans, with many recalling how their rivalry changed the sport’s narrative.

Ducati’s decision to sign Marquez, a six-time MotoGP World Champion, is seen as a bold move by the Italian manufacturer, hoping to dominate the grid with the Spaniard’s undeniable skills. However, Rossi’s comments reflect the apprehension felt by some in the MotoGP community, who worry about how Marquez’s presence may disrupt the balance within the paddock.

“I respect Ducati as a team—they’ve been incredible in recent seasons—but signing Marquez is risky,” Rossi added. “He’s a fantastic rider, but with him comes drama. It’s not always about the speed; it’s also about harmony within the team.”

Marquez has had a tough few seasons due to injury, and his move to Ducati signals a fresh start after spending his entire MotoGP career with Honda. While some view this as an exciting new chapter, Rossi’s remarks suggest that the move could reignite tensions on the track, especially with the aggressive and sometimes unpredictable style Marquez is known for.

Despite Rossi’s reservations, many MotoGP fans are excited to see how the Marquez-Ducati partnership will unfold, with some hopeful that this pairing could bring a new level of competition to the grid. However, Rossi’s warning remains clear: Marquez’s history of causing friction and his ability to polarize the sport could pose challenges for Ducati and MotoGP as a whole.

As the MotoGP paddock braces for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on Marquez as he transitions to Ducati, and whether his “kẻ gây rối” reputation will affect his relationship with his new team, competitors, and fans alike.