In a candid interview with Relevo.com, MotoGP icon Giacomo Agostini shared his thoughts on two of the sport’s greatest legends: Marc Márquez and Valentino Rossi. Reflecting on their impact, Agostini spoke with admiration for both but revealed a soft spot for Márquez’s electrifying style. “Marc is my weakness,” he admitted. “He excites the public; he’s a showman, and everyone loves him.”
Agostini, a 15-time World Champion, holds Rossi in high regard, acknowledging the Italian’s unmatched skill and psychological edge that earned him nine world titles. “A driver with cunning,” he said of Rossi. “Someone who wins nine world titles has to be really good.” Yet, when it comes to Márquez, Agostini sees a unique appeal that distinguishes him from Il Dottore.
Discussing the rivalry, Agostini noted the age difference between Márquez and Rossi, which, he feels, influenced the outcome of their legendary battles. “They were not at the same age; one was starting, and the other was not. This could have conditioned the final results,” he explained. However, for Agostini, Márquez’s fearless, all-in approach resonates deeply. “Marc is more reckless, bold, daring. He is a fighter, and people may like this more. Marc never gives up—it is pure spectacle.”
With Márquez set to ride for Ducati alongside Pecco Bagnaia next season, Agostini believes fans are in for a thrilling spectacle, with Márquez’s fearless spirit continuing to push the boundaries. For the legendary Agostini, who has witnessed generations of MotoGP champions, the Márquez-Rossi legacy is one of the sport’s most captivating eras.