Francesco Bagnaia(Ducati Lenovo Team), Reigning MotoGP champion, has made a bold and emotional statement regarding the season finale, stating he would rather forgo his shot at the 2024 title than race in Valencia under current circumstances.
The two-time champion emphasized that the devastating floods affecting the Valencia region, which have claimed 158 lives and destroyed homes and critical infrastructure, make the usual “party” atmosphere of a MotoGP season-ending event feel “unthinkable.”
Ahead of the Malaysian GP, Bagnaia expressed his view that holding a race in a region still reeling from tragedy would be inappropriate. Even if Circuit Ricardo Tormo is cleared to host the event, Bagnaia believes it would be wrong to race, given the severe impacts on the local community.
“I don’t think it’s right to race in Valencia, in any case,” Bagnaia said.
“I really hope they consider, on an ethical level, that it’s not the right situation to do this. I say this even if it costs me my chance at the title.”
MotoGP officials are still assessing the situation, with FIM president Jorge Viegas and Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta reiterating their intent to proceed with the Valencia round unless otherwise advised by local authorities. Bagnaia, however, has escalated his stance, implying he would be willing to withdraw from the event if the decision to race goes forward, potentially sacrificing his opportunity to close the 17-point gap to championship leader Jorge Martin.
This is not the first time Bagnaia has raised ethical concerns about competing amid tragedy. In 2021, following the tragic death of Moto3 rider Jason Dupasquier, Bagnaia requested that MotoGP cancel the Italian Grand Prix at Mugello. Though the race ultimately went ahead, Bagnaia’s moral convictions reflect his commitment to respecting those affected by loss.
As MotoGP officials deliberate, Bagnaia’s strong stance has amplified calls for a deeper consideration of the emotional and ethical implications of racing in Valencia, with many fans and pundits backing his call for respect and empathy during this tragic time.
Credit Photo : MotoGP
