Marquez and MotoGP Riders oppose Valencia race after floods
- Devastating floods in Eastern Spain have led to significant destruction, affecting towns, collapsing bridges, and resulting in at least 205 fatalities.
- MotoGP organizers announced the cancellation of the Valencia season finale originally scheduled for November 17, prioritizing recovery efforts and community needs over the race.
- Riders, including Jorge Martin and Francesco Bagnaia, expressed the view that it is unethical to race in the region under the current circumstances, advocating for the event to be held elsewhere.
In early November 2024, Eastern Spain faced one of its most catastrophic natural disasters in decades due to devastating floods. Towns were heavily impacted, with infrastructure damaged, cars piled up, and bridges collapsing. Tragically, the floods resulted in a death toll of at least 205 people, prompting a widespread outcry for assistance and recovery efforts in the affected areas. In light of this disaster, MotoGP organizers announced the cancellation of the Valencia Grand Prix, which was scheduled to take place on November 17. In a statement, they mentioned the need to evaluate the potential impacts of holding the race while ensuring that local resources would not be diverted from recovery efforts. This key decision underscores the organization's commitment to prioritizing community welfare over sporting events. Top motorcycle racers, including champions Jorge Martin and Francesco Bagnaia, publicly voiced their concerns about the ethical implications of hosting the race amid such devastation. They highlighted the importance of demonstrating solidarity with the affected communities rather than proceeding with the event as if nothing had happened. In lieu of racing in Valencia, MotoGP pledged to focus on supporting the existing relief efforts and helping affected families. This unprecedented cancellation reflects a growing awareness of social responsibility in professional sports, especially in times of community crises.