Superbike star Alvaro Bautista has publicly criticized the penalties he faces compared to other riders, notably highlighting Marc Marquez’s dominance in MotoGP without similar sanctions. As the 2025 season progresses, Bautista reflects on his journey since returning to the paddock in 2019, expressing frustration over what he sees as a lack of fairness in the sport’s regulation. Despite uncertainty about his career prospects, he remains committed to competing at the highest level, determined to secure victories.
Frustrations Rise Over Perceived Disadvantage and Sporting Fairness
Bautista points out disparities in how different riders are treated, criticizing a system that seems to favor athletes based on physical attributes. Comparing his experiences in Superbike racing with MotoGP, he questions why some riders, like Marquez, appear to avoid penalties for similar actions. Bautista insists that racing should provide equal chances for all participants, regardless of size or stature, emphasizing the need for a more equitable environment within the sport.
Negotiations Stall as Bautista Demands Recognition of His Worth
Turning to his personal future, Bautista makes clear that he will not accept a contract without fair compensation, underscoring his value as a top competitor. He highlights the sacrifices made by many riders and expresses disappointment that no concrete offers have materialized for the upcoming season. Nevertheless, Bautista’s passion for racing and desire to continue at Ducati or another team remain strong, supported by the encouragement of his family and crew.
Technical Challenges and Potential Career Uncertainty
During the interview, Bautista also discusses the impact of additional weight in racing and other technical elements that complicate competition in Superbike. While he considers alternative racing opportunities, his focus stays on finishing the current season with strong results. As external factors weigh heavily on his career decisions, Bautista’s situation embodies the broader challenges facing professional riders striving to maintain their place in the sport.
Looking Ahead: A Pivotal Moment for Bautista and Superbike Racing
With the Superbike season ongoing, Alvaro Bautista’s fight highlights critical issues within motorcycle racing, from treatment equity to contractual fairness. His outspoken stance might inspire change or at least spark further debate about the sport’s direction. Meanwhile, Marc Marquez continues to dominate MotoGP, untouched by similar controversies, drawing a stark contrast between their careers. The coming months will be crucial in determining Bautista’s path and whether he can overcome these obstacles to remain a competitive force.
“Marquez is Winning Everything, Just Like I Used To, But They Didn’t Penalize Him” —Alvaro Bautista, Superbike Star
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why is MotoGP not so popular?
A. Unfortunately, entertainment often attracts more attention than sports, and MotoGP wants to benefit from this. However, MotoGP lacks the personalities needed to create exciting drama right now.
Q. Has anyone won F1 and MotoGP?
A. John Surtees is known for being the only person to win world championships on motorcycles and in Formula 1 cars. He showed equal talent and courage in both sports.
Q. Who was banned from MotoGP?
A. The Aprilia MotoGP team criticized the 18-month doping suspension given to Italian rider Andrea Iannone, calling it “absurd,” and stated they would support his appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
Q. Why is Kawasaki not allowed in MotoGP?
A. For Kawasaki, MotoGP is challenging, both in terms of money and technology, and doesn’t match its current goals. Instead, Kawasaki is focusing on its achievements in the World Superbike Championship (WSBK). This approach helps the company get the best return on its investment and build a strong reputation as a top maker of regular motorcycles.
