Marc Marquez and Francesco Bagnaia were summoned to Race Direction after the Italian Grand Prix at Mugello – here’s why.
The Brembo Italian Grand Prix delivered intense excitement, particularly in the opening laps, as Ducati’s two factory riders were involved in a minor but dramatic on-track incident. On lap three, Pecco Bagnaia and Marc Marquez made contact coming out of the Borgo San Lorenzo corner. Marquez was ahead, and Bagnaia, right behind, clipped the rear of the number 93 bike.
Though the contact was light and did not result in any crashes or damage, it certainly made fans – and even this writer – jump. As reported by the team at MemasGP, both riders were later called in post-race by Simon Crafar, former rider and current Race Direction liaison, solely to clarify the dynamics of the incident.
WATCH – The Moment Bagnaia and Marquez Made Contact!
Marquez-Bagnaia Contact, Penalty Incoming? No – Just a Clarification
There was never any intention from the FIM Steward Panel to issue penalties. The meeting was simply a discussion to better understand what had happened on track.
Speaking to the media after the race, Bagnaia downplayed the incident, calling it “something completely normal.” The Italian explained that Marquez delayed opening the throttle to avoid cutting into his racing line – just a typical racing moment.
Marquez also brushed off any controversy, joking that “Crafar likes to chat with riders to hear their point of view.” No tension in the Ducati garage, then – just two world-class riders pushing hard. With the matter settled, both can now focus on the upcoming Dutch TT at Assen this weekend.
Photo: Ducati Corse
