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Marc Marquez, a prominent figure in MotoGP, has openly criticized the recent alterations to the sport's pre-race routines. The updated protocols, which mirror those seen in Formula 1, now mandate that all riders assemble at the grid's forefront to honor the host nation's flag and anthem. Marquez views this as an unwelcome imposition that disturbs the vital mental and physical preparations riders undergo before competition. The abrupt introduction of these changes at the San Marino Grand Prix, without prior notification or consultation with the riders, has fueled his annoyance. This situation has sparked a broader discussion about the balance between ceremonial obligations and the athletes' need for undisturbed focus.

Despite his grievances concerning the new pre-race ceremonies, Marquez demonstrated impressive form on the track. Following a challenging performance at the Catalan GP where he was bested by his brother Alex, Marquez bounced back strongly during the Misano practice sessions, securing the fastest lap time. This resurgence highlights his enduring talent and adaptability, even amidst procedural changes. His ability to recover and perform at a high level underscores his competitive spirit and his team's capacity to adjust the bike's setup to suit the unique characteristics of the Misano circuit.

Rider Frustration with Evolving Race Day Procedures

MotoGP star Marc Marquez has openly voiced his displeasure regarding the recent adjustments to the sport's pre-race rituals, which now demand riders to assemble at the grid's front for a national anthem ceremony, akin to Formula 1. Marquez argues that this new protocol disrupts the riders' critical pre-race preparation and concentration. The abrupt implementation of these changes at the San Marino Grand Prix without prior notification to the riders has been a significant point of contention for him, highlighting a disconnect between race organizers and the athletes. He believes that the increasing demands on riders for non-racing activities could eventually lead to overwhelming pressure and impact their performance, emphasizing the need for better communication and consideration of rider input.

The integration of an F1-style pre-race ceremony has shifted the established routine for MotoGP competitors. Previously, riders maintained proximity to their starting positions, engaging in last-minute technical discussions with their teams or entering a state of intense focus. The new directive, requiring all riders to stand together at the front of the grid for a national anthem, represents a considerable departure from this tradition. Marquez's reaction underscores a broader concern within the rider community about being subject to changes without adequate prior knowledge or involvement in decision-making processes, potentially affecting their mental state and readiness for the race. His candid comments suggest a growing tension between the commercial and entertainment aspects of the sport and the core needs of the athletes.

Marquez's On-Track Resilience Amidst Off-Track Discontent

Despite his vocal criticism of the new pre-race protocols, Marc Marquez showcased remarkable resilience and speed during the San Marino Grand Prix's practice sessions. After a disappointing outcome at the previous Catalan Grand Prix, where he finished behind his brother Alex, Marquez swiftly regained his competitive edge. He delivered the fastest time in the main practice session at Misano, demonstrating that his on-track performance remains unaffected by his frustrations with administrative changes. This immediate return to form highlights his ability to compartmentalize and focus on racing, reaffirming his status as a top contender in the championship.

Marquez's strong showing at Misano, where he led his closest rival Marco Bezzecchi by a significant margin, was a testament to both his skill and his team's quick adjustments. Initially, Marquez struggled with the bike's setup during the first practice session, describing the experience as "super stiff" and a constant "fight." However, a strategic "reset" and modifications to his riding style, combined with effective team collaboration on bike adjustments, enabled him to overcome these early challenges. He acknowledged that the Misano circuit, with its high grip asphalt and unique demands on braking points, presented a different challenge compared to Catalunya. Nevertheless, he expressed confidence in the bike's suitability for the conditions, noting that while small bumps caused some shaking, it was a manageable factor for all riders, positioning him favorably for the upcoming race events.

In a significant development for MotoGP, Franco Morbidelli has been placed under a stringent "special warning" by race officials. This measure comes after a series of repeated offenses, culminating in incidents at the recent Catalan Grand Prix. The VR46 rider now faces severe consequences, specifically a ride-through penalty, for any future transgressions on the track. This heightened scrutiny underscores the stewards' commitment to maintaining fair play and adherence to regulations within the sport.

MotoGP Stewards Take Firm Stance on Franco Morbidelli's Repeated Infractions

Franco Morbidelli, a rider for the VR46 Racing Team, has been officially notified by MotoGP stewards that he is under a "special warning" due to a pattern of rule violations. The warning was prompted by two specific incidents during the Catalan Grand Prix last weekend, held on September 12, 2025. In the sprint race, Morbidelli was penalized for causing a collision with Aprilia's Jorge Martin, resulting in a long-lap penalty. Subsequently, in the main race on Sunday, he faced further sanctions for disregarding direct instructions from marshals after a crash, leading to a fine and a suspension from the initial 10 minutes of Free Practice 1 at the San Marino Grand Prix.

These recent events, coupled with prior infractions over the past few years, have led the stewards to adopt a more rigorous approach. While initial reports of a potential race ban were dismissed by Morbidelli, he confirmed that any subsequent offense would result in a ride-through penalty, a rare and impactful sanction in MotoGP. The rider likened this situation to receiving an "orange card" in football, indicating a consequence between a yellow and red card. Morbidelli acknowledged the need to temper his aggressive riding style, recognizing that his rivals could exploit this increased oversight. He stated his intention to be less aggressive and more precise, understanding that any misstep would lead to significant penalties.

This stern warning to Franco Morbidelli serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of disciplined conduct in competitive motorsports. It highlights the delicate balance riders must maintain between aggressive racing and adhering to the rules to ensure safety and fair competition. For fans, it emphasizes that even seasoned professionals are not immune to accountability, and continuous improvement, both in skill and sportsmanship, is paramount.