FORMULA 1 F1 CALENDAR 2026 LEWIS HAMILTON MOTOGP RUMOURS

Bagnaia reveals the common trait Rossi and Marquez both share

16:00, 16 Mar

Updated: 16:36, 16 Mar

byAndrew McLarney

Andrew joined GP Blog in 2026 as a MotoGP reporter. His lifelong interest in sports includes martial arts, winter sports and motorsports, while his professional background is in writing and animation.

In addition to MotoGP, Andrew also has a keen interest in Formula 1 and GT racing as well as an enthusiasm to learn about the history of sports in general.

Previously, he has worked in the video game industry writing for a variety of outlets such as GameRant and DualShockers, and also has a degree from Falmouth University.

Two-time MotoGP world champion Francesco 'Pecco' Bagnaia certainly has a unique relationship with the most infamous duo in the sport's history. As Rossi's protege and Marquez's current teammate, he has a better insight than anyone into the qualities shared by both riders.

Bagnaia, who had a difficult 2025 season after the arrival of Marquez to Ducati, recently shared his perspective after having spent a lot of time around both figures, a position which he feels grateful to be in.

In a recent interview with GPOne, Pecco shed some light on how it feels to be a competitor and a rival, but also a student of such men:

"I am extremely grateful for this opportunity. On a sporting level, Valentino has been the one who has helped me the most. Having Marc in the garage is positive; I can see his data and talk to him." He said.

"Vale and Marc have something in common: determination. On the track, they would give you a hard time to stay ahead."

Bagnaia himself has occasionally been accused of being 'too nice' on the track, and lacking the cut-throat style which separates the greats from other world champions.

Photo: Red Bull Content Pool

Pecco also had some positive words to say about Casey Stoner, Ducati's first MotoGP world champion, who retired in 2012 at just 27 years of age after winning his second world title.

"Casey has been close to me on occasion, and his help makes all the difference . I never raced against him, but he had incredible talent; he made the difference because of his ability to adapt to different situations."

Bagnaia will certainly be hoping to implement some of his learnings for the remainder of the 2026 season. The Italian had a tough weekend at the Thai Grand Prix, ultimately fighting to a top-ten finish, but nowhere near the top-end of the field where he would like to be.