Valentino Rossi and Marc Marquez have long been known for their intense rivalry, marked by fierce competition and dramatic encounters in MotoGP. However, for Franco Morbidelli, both figures have been instrumental in shaping his career. As one of the first talents to rise through Rossi’s VR46 Academy, Morbidelli entered the professional racing world under Rossi’s guidance when he debuted in Moto2 in 2013 at just 18 years old.
Morbidelli made a significant mark by becoming the first VR46 rider to claim a grand prix world championship in 2017, winning the Moto2 title with Marc VDS. His promotion to MotoGP the following year further highlighted Rossi’s role as a mentor, with Morbidelli joining the premier class as the academy’s first protégé. His standout MotoGP season came in 2020, a shortened year in which Morbidelli secured three race wins and challenged for the title, ultimately finishing second behind Joan Mir, despite using an older Yamaha bike.
Reflecting on Rossi’s early support
In a conversation with the Italian publication GPOne, Morbidelli spoke about how vital Rossi’s encouragement was during his formative years. He recalled the significance of Rossi’s guidance when he was young and uncertain.
I was very young, I was 18, and that was one of the greatest lessons that Vale gave me,
Morbidelli commented.
When one is in trouble, as was normal for me at that time, he is given a hand and I will always be grateful for what was his hand.
—Franco Morbidelli, MotoGP Rider
This support helped Morbidelli establish himself in the grand prix paddock, but it was an unexpected gesture from Rossi’s rival, Marc Marquez, that left a lasting impression in a more critical moment years later.
Marc Marquez’s lifesaving intervention after Morbidelli’s crash
After several challenging seasons with Yamaha, hindered by injuries and the shortcomings of the YZR-M1 machine, Morbidelli switched to Pramac Ducati for the 2024 season, seeking a fresh start. However, before the competition even began, he suffered a severe crash during a Superbike training session in Portimão. Morbidelli was unconscious in the gravel when Marc Marquez and his brother were among the first to reach the scene. Marquez quickly acted by loosening Morbidelli’s helmet strap, enabling him to breathe.
I don’t remember anything at all. I carry with me the apprehension of all the people who were by my side, including Marquez who picked me up that day on the track,
Morbidelli shared.
He added that the incident made him deeply reflect on the importance of avoiding such errors in the future.
I owe him so much because at that moment I was out of breath and he unfastened my helmet. At that moment I regained my breath. If I had not been able to resume breathing, I would have had very important permanent damage.
—Franco Morbidelli, MotoGP Rider
This event is a powerful reminder that, despite fierce rivalries often highlighted in the sport, respect and humanity remain at its core.
Morbidelli’s return to VR46 Racing Team
In 2025, Morbidelli’s relationship with Rossi came full circle as he joined Rossi’s VR46 Racing Team in MotoGP, teaming up with fellow Italian rider Fabio Di Giannantonio. This move reunited the protégé with his mentor’s outfit, symbolizing both a personal and professional milestone in Morbidelli’s journey.
The ongoing support from iconic figures like Rossi and Marquez illustrates the strong bonds within MotoGP, where rivalry coexists with moments of deep respect and camaraderie.
