Sepang Sprint Race Sparks Factory Tactics Dispute
Marc Marquez ignited a paddock-wide debate over factory tactics following the Malaysian Grand Prix sprint race at Sepang International Circuit, drawing a swift rebuttal from Aprilia CEO Massimo Rivola. The controversy centers on whether Aprilia utilized team orders to protect podium positions and shield championship contender Marco Bezzecchi from the charging Ducati rider. Marquez claimed after the race that Ai Ogura intentionally maintained position ahead of him to secure his own podium while simultaneously preventing points loss for Bezzecchi.
Rivola Fires Back at Ducati Over Phillip Island Management
Rivola dismissed Marquez’s assertions during an interview with DAZN, firing back at Ducati by suggesting that the factory had already engaged in similar internal management during earlier rounds. The Aprilia chief specifically pointed to the Australian Grand Prix at Phillip Island, where Alex Marquez elected not to challenge his brother Marc for victory. Rivola noted that Ducati’s internal dynamics allowed the Marquez family to manage outcomes on track without taking unnecessary risks.
Menurutmu, Apakah Aksi Ai Ogura murni ambisi pribadi untuk Podium, atau ada ' factory Order ' dari Aprilia? pic.twitter.com/pSf3dViD1c
Championship Math Points Toward Qatar Showdown
The strategic tension arrives as Aprilia chases its first-ever world championship in MotoGP. Heading into the final rounds, Marquez holds a 44-point advantage over his rivals following a victory in Malaysia, while Jorge Martin was forced to withdraw due to a wrist injury. Meanwhile, Bezzecchi sits 67 points behind Marquez, leaving the Ducati rider with an opportunity to seal the world title at the upcoming Grand Prix in Qatar.
Dall’Igna Balances Manufacturer Guidance With Rider Safety
Ducati Corse General Manager Gigi Dall’Igna addressed the mounting paddock debate regarding manufacturer instructions, emphasizing that while factories can provide guidance to riders, safety and individual respect must remain paramount. Dall’Igna explained that competitors are risking their lives on track, meaning team directives must stop where individual rider welfare begins. Dall’Igna also acknowledged that having brothers Marc and Alex competing under the same manufacturer simplifies internal management, noting that Ducati’s primary standing instruction is to avoid problems between riders using the same machinery.
/data/photo/2020/10/11/5f8284f8d09b6.jpg "Photo: Kompas")
Paddock Moves to Lusail for November Finale
The MotoGP paddock travels next to Lusail for the Grand Prix of Qatar, scheduled for November 6–8, where on-track practice sessions begin ahead of the weekend’s championship-deciding encounters.
