Italian supporters of two-time MotoGP champion Marc Marquez have announced they will not be attending the Mugello round in 2016.
Due to the rivalry which emerged between Marquez and Valentino Rossi, in the latter stages of the 2015 season, Marc Marquez’s Italian fan club have stated that the decision has been taken due to threats and worries over members safety.
“We’re really very sorry to have to make this drastic decision, but the situation at the moment is not great and the environment is really dangerous,” the statement read.
“We find it shameful that fans can’t cheer freely for their rider without running the risk of being threatened, having things thrown at them, or even being spat on – but unfortunately, we have arrived at this point.
“We hope that you understand this choice has been taken for the good of the members.”
Rossi accused Marquez of hindering him in the Phillip Island race, in order to help out fellow Spaniard and title rival Lorenzo. Stating that Marquez was sore from earlier on track battles, which left Marquez on the dirt, in Argentina, and trailing Rossi to finish 2nd at Assen following a final corner coming together, Rossi having to cut the corner to stay upright.
“Unfortunately, there are fans – of every rider – that don’t understand that a rivalry between riders doesn’t have to lead to a continuous confrontation between the fans in the stands.”
