MotoGP: Bagnaia recalls his meeting with Marquez in 2010: ‘They told me to watch him closely
The history of MotoGP is full of memorable encounters that mark the beginning of great rivalries and friendships among riders. One such moment occurred in 2010, when a young Francesco Bagnaia, only 13 years old, had the opportunity to meet the Spanish icon Marc Márquez, who at that time was just starting to forge his path in the world of motorcycling. This meeting not only left a mark in Pecco’s memory but also became a source of inspiration for his career, as he himself remembers: ‘They told me to watch him closely.’ This anecdote highlights the admiration and respect that exists between the two riders, who now share the track in pursuit of success in a championship where the competition is fierce.
MotoGP: Bagnaia remembers his meeting with Marquez in 2010: ‘They told me to watch him closely’
The story of Francesco Bagnaia and Marc Márquez is emblematic in the world of motorcycling, marked by a casual encounter that took place in 2010. During that memorable occasion, a young Bagnaia, impressed by the Spanish icon, asked for a photo with him while his team manager advised him to pay attention to his performance on the track. This meeting not only planted the seed of what would become a friendly rivalry in the MotoGP World Championship but also established a bond between two champions who now compete side by side at Ducati.
The beginning of a trajectory
In 2010, Marc Márquez was only 17 years old, while Bagnaia was just 13. It was a crucial moment in their respective careers, with each one in their early stages of motorcycling. That day, while both were at the Circuit de Barcelona, young Pecco decided to approach his idol to ask for a photo. The anecdote has become legendary, as his team manager told him: “You must watch him closely; he will be talked about a lot.” These words would become a prophecy of the phenomenon that Márquez would come to be.
Building a friendly rivalry
Years later, in 2025, both Bagnaia and Márquez met again, but this time as teammates at Ducati Lenovo. The internal rivalry between them has become a central theme of the season, with each trying to outdo the other. Despite the competition, the respect and admiration they have for each other continue to grow, transforming their relationship into a captivating story between two of the best riders in the world.
An indelible memory
The photograph that captures their first meeting in 2010 has gone viral on social media, evoking memories of a past time. During a recent press conference after the presentation of the new Ducati, Bagnaia recounted that moment with nostalgia: “I remember it was the season when Marc won his first title. We were at one of the early tests, and he came to greet us. I asked for a photo because I was impressed by his performance on KTM.” The connection of that moment is a symbol of their intertwined trajectories in the MotoGP universe.
The focus on the future
As both riders prepare for the new season, it is evident that the story of their meeting continues to resonate. Márquez, when asked about that photograph, admitted he does not remember all the details but showed his commitment to a competitive 2025 in search of another title. For his part, Bagnaia reflected a palpable emotion when he stated: “We built something special together after that photo. It’s really beautiful.”
The inspiration for a new generation
The story of Bagnaia and Márquez is a testament to the passion for motorcycling and the dynamics that surround it. Their trajectory not only inspires young riders who dream of reaching stardom but also attracts fans, who see their rivalry as a fascinating spectacle on the track. As they compete for glory, both continue to honor their shared history, embodying the spirit of MotoGP.
In the end, this casual meeting not only marked the beginning of a friendly rivalry; it also became a symbol of respect and admiration between two of the greatest motorcycle talents, who now navigate together in the competitive world of MotoGP.
Reflections on the Meeting that Shaped the Future of Two Champions
The history of motorcycling is full of crucial moments that define the direction of riders. In this context, the meeting between Francesco Bagnaia and Marc Márquez in 2010 stands out as one of those significant milestones. At a time when both were at the beginning of their careers, Pecco’s curiosity and admiration for the then-young Márquez laid the foundation for a relationship that has evolved into a formidable rivalry on the track.
During that first interaction, when Bagnaia asked Márquez for a photo, he not only captured an instant but also immortalized the admiration he felt for a rider who would become an icon of the sport. The advice from his team manager to “watch him closely” was more than just a simple recommendation; it was an invitation to learn and absorb what it means to be a champion. This advice has resonated throughout Bagnaia’s career, who has managed to capitalize on that experience as he advances in his own trajectory.
As these two talented riders meet again on the Lenovo Ducati team in 2025, the narrative of their lives intertwines once more. The pressure of competition and the desire to surpass each other not only drive their individual performances but also add an exciting dimension to the championship. Each race becomes an opportunity to demonstrate not only their skill but also the evolution of that initial relationship between a learner and a master.
The story of Bagnaia and Márquez is a reminder of how connections in sports can influence personal and professional growth. The lessons learned in youth, as well as interactions in the paddock, are reflected in their competitive performances on the track. This emotional bond transcends results, becoming a source of inspiration for future generations of motorcyclists and sports enthusiasts.
