Franco Morbidelli is experiencing a challenging period as his MotoGP penalties continue to accumulate throughout the 2025 season. The VR46 Ducati rider’s recent incidents in Barcelona have added to a growing list of official sanctions, highlighting ongoing difficulties in adhering to race regulations.
Details of Incidents at Barcelona and Previous Races
At the latest round in Barcelona, Morbidelli received a long lap penalty following a collision with Jorge Martin during the sprint race. Subsequently, during the Sunday main event, he was fined and suspended from the initial 10 minutes of free practice at the San Marino Grand Prix for not following marshals’ direct instructions.
These penalties reinforced Morbidelli’s status as the most penalised rider in 2025. Earlier in the season, he started with a three-place grid drop in Thailand for riding slowly on the racing line, a breach he repeated at Silverstone. At the Italian Grand Prix, he was handed a long lap penalty for causing a crash involving Maverick Vinales, a sanction many felt was relatively mild considering the incident.
These 2025 issues add to a 2024 season where Morbidelli was penalised three times for taking out fellow competitors.
Clarifying Interaction with Marshals at Barcelona
Before the Misano race weekend, Morbidelli emphasized that there was no conflict with the marshals in Spain regarding the penalties. He explained that any perceived friction was a misunderstanding about his restart position after the crash.
“What I would like to make clear is that I was not fighting with the marshals,”
—Franco Morbidelli
He further clarified,
“So this is the most important thing for me. I would like to make clear that I wasn’t rude with the marshals. Maybe I just rejoined the track in a site where I wasn’t supposed to restart.”
—Franco Morbidelli
Morbidelli acknowledged the marshals helped him restart his bike after the crash, an effort he appreciated despite the frustration of the situation.
Morbidelli Reflects on Struggles with Race Officials
Morbidelli admitted the challenges he is facing in aligning his racing style with the expectations of MotoGP officials and stewards. He noted that numerous discussions have taken place with the steward panel to understand their perspectives on rulings and how they judge rider conduct.
“Yes, for sure, it’s a hot moment for me,”
—Franco Morbidelli
He continued,
“I’ve had a lot of meetings with the steward panel. We have spoken a lot and they have tried to explain to me the way they view things and the way they judge things. It seems that lately… I struggle to apply exactly what they are asking me, because of the way I race, because of the way I am and the way I have always been. Definitely, definitely it’s a hot moment.”
Morbidelli stressed that his situation is not unique among riders who occasionally find themselves in close disputes with those enforcing the rules. He remains open to dialogue and respects the stewardship process as he attempts to adjust.
“As I always said, I’m always open to talking with the steward panel. I always respect their choice and I always try to apply what they are asking me. And probably it’s a process… and I’m still trying to complete this process.”
—Franco Morbidelli
“I hope to make it very quick, because for sure the penalties are becoming more and more.”
—Franco Morbidelli
Implications for Morbidelli’s Season and Future
Morbidelli’s ongoing penalty issues could affect his competitiveness in the 2025 MotoGP season, interrupting his rhythm during critical practice sessions and races. The frequent meetings with officials underline the pressure he faces to modify his approach under increasing scrutiny.
His ability to reconcile his aggressive racing style with regulatory demands will be key to reducing future sanctions and regaining focus on performance. With the San Marino Grand Prix approaching, how Morbidelli adapts may influence his results and standing among top contenders.
