Marc Marquez and Bagnaia hits back at FIM president’s economy comments over Valencia GP: “ As a human, as a Spanish person, I cannot think a GP in two weeks but….”

 

Marc Marquez and reigning world champion Francesco Bagnaia have voiced strong objections to comments made by FIM president Jorge Viegas regarding the cancellation of the Valencia Grand Prix, which was called off due to devastating flooding in the region that has claimed over 150 lives.

Before the race’s cancellation, Viegas remarked to Sky Italy that not holding the race would negatively impact the local economy of the Valencian Community. However, this sentiment has drawn sharp criticism from prominent riders.

Bagnaia, after practice for the Malaysian GP, declared that he would not participate in Valencia even if it meant losing the championship, underscoring the severity of the situation. Marquez echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that racing in the region so soon after such a catastrophe is not only impractical but insensitive.

“It’s not just about money,” Marquez stated. “It’s about people losing everything, and you see the streets. Everything in

Valencia is a disaster; it’s like a film. People are living in the circuit facilities. As a human, as a Spanish person, I cannot think about realizing a GP in two weeks there.”

Marquez further criticized the idea of prioritizing the race over the well-being of the local community, stressing that the championship must recognize the gravity of the situation.

### Espargaro Highlights Complexity of the Decision

Aleix Espargaro also weighed in, expressing that most riders share the view that racing in Valencia would be inappropriate under the current circumstances. He acknowledged the complexity of the decision-making process, noting the loss of life and the ongoing recovery efforts.

“The situation is extremely complicated,” Espargaro said. “I think we don’t realize how serious it is. Hopefully, I’m wrong, but it looks like we’re going to double this number of casualties.”

Espargaro suggested that while the decision to cancel the race is difficult, there may be alternative ways to support the affected communities, such as providing assistance through postponed events or donations.

“The decision Dorna has to make is tricky,” he said. “If we go to Barcelona, we need to help Valencia in some way. Postponing the race could still provide funds to help local businesses and families.”

As the MotoGP community reflects on the situation, it is clear that the focus must shift from economic considerations to humanitarian support for those impacted by the flooding. The riders’ strong stance highlights a collective understanding that life and safety must take precedence over sport.