Tensions have risen in the MotoGP world following the controversial decision by the International Motorcycling Federation (FIM) to withdraw the championship title from Marc Márquez. Amid the heated debate, Márquez’s girlfriend Gemma Pinto has caused a stir with a bold and unexpected message directed at MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi.

The decision to strip Márquez of the title came after a series of highly controversial incidents on the track, with allegations of unsportsmanlike conduct and rule violations. While Márquez himself has remained relatively silent, leaving the legal and sporting teams to deal with the turmoil, Gemma Pinto has taken to social media to express her frustration and anger at the situation, but her focus has not been solely on Márquez’s plight.

In a surprising twist, Pinto’s message was not directed at the FIM or the racing community at large, but at Valentino Rossi, Márquez’s longtime rival. On his Instagram account, he wrote:

“Respect is something you earn on and off the track. History may praise legends, but true champions respect the sport and the next generation. “It’s time for some drivers to take responsibility for how they’ve shaped this narrative.”

While Pinto did not name Rossi directly, the message was clearly directed at him, fueling speculation that he believes the Italian rider had a role in influencing the FIM’s decision or sparking controversy. Rossi and Márquez have a well-documented history of rivalry, clashing on numerous occasions throughout their careers, which has often polarised MotoGP fans.

Rossi has yet to respond to Pinto’s comments, but the message has already sparked intense reactions from fans of both riders. Some defended Pinto, agreeing that Rossi’s legacy has helped shape the current dynamics of the sport, while others criticized her for fanning the flames of an already contentious issue.

As the MotoGP world awaits further news, this message adds another layer to the ongoing saga between two of the sport’s biggest names. Whether or not this will impact the already tense relationship between Rossi and Márquez remains to be seen, but it’s clear that Pinto’s voice has added a surprising and personal dimension to the controversy.