Priority must go to the victims of deadly floods in Spain, rather than a quick repair of the Valencia circuit, where the MotoGP season is due to end in mid-November, six-time world champion Marc Marquez of Spain stressed on Thursday.
“It makes no sense to start repairing the damage when there are many people homeless,” the Ducati-Gresini rider told reporters ahead of the Malaysian Grand Prix in Sepang. “In theory, we have a Grand Prix there. But now all benefits must go to people who have lost their homes,” he insisted.
The devastating floods have left at least 95 people dead and many missing in southeastern Spain and caused shock in the country, where the government declared a three-day national mourning starting Thursday. The dramatic context and the extent of the material damage have called into question the holding of the last Grand Prix of the MotoGP season on the Ricardo-Tormo circuit, about twenty kilometers from Valencia, from 15 to 17 November.
“Today going there for a race is the least important thing”
The sudden increase in water, following bad weather of an intensity rarely seen, damaged “a good part” of the access infrastructure and car parks, according to the circuit managers. If the track remains in “optimal” condition, the works will have to be carried out “urgently” to accommodate the tens of thousands of spectators expected, they assured.
The various structures on the site served as shelter, during the night between Tuesday and Wednesday, for around a hundred people who worked on site, they specified. “Today going there for a race is the least important thing. If we go there, it will be important to make a gesture of help”, also judged the Spaniard Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia). The organization needs to work on a plan B, he argued, such as postponing it a week or moving to another circuit.
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Interview Between Time.news Editor and MotoGP Expert on Valencia Circuit and Flood Victims
Time.news Editor: Welcome to this special edition of Time.news, where we delve into pressing issues impacting the sports world and beyond. Today, I’m joined by MotoGP expert, Dr. Elena Rodriguez, to discuss the recent devastating floods in Spain and their implications for the upcoming MotoGP events. Dr. Rodriguez, thank you for being here.
Dr. Elena Rodriguez: Thank you for having me. This is an important topic that intersects sports, community, and human tragedy.
Editor: Absolutely. As we’ve seen, six-time world champion Marc Marquez has made a poignant statement regarding the situation in Spain. He emphasized that the priority should be the victims of the floods rather than a quick repair of the Valencia circuit. What are your thoughts on that?
Dr. Rodriguez: I completely agree with Marquez. It’s essential to prioritize human lives and the well-being of those affected by this disaster. Racing is important, but the loss of life and the displacement of families are far more critical. Sports can wait, but people need help now.
Editor: That’s a very valid point. The floods have claimed at least 95 lives and left many homeless. How do you think the MotoGP community can respond to such tragedies?
Dr. Rodriguez: The MotoGP community has the potential to mobilize significant resources. They could organize fundraising events or donations directed towards relief efforts. Additionally, using social media platforms for awareness can help generate more support for the victims.
Editor: It’s heartening to know that the community can rally together. In terms of the logistics of the MotoGP season, how do you foresee the impact of the floods on the Valencia circuit and the Malaysian Grand Prix?
Dr. Rodriguez: Logistically, it’s certainly going to be challenging. While preparations for the Malaysian Grand Prix are underway, the Valencia circuit’s repair will need to be put on hold until the immediate needs of the flood victims are addressed. This may require renegotiating schedules or events, which can impact not only the teams but also fans and advertisers.
Editor: That’s insightful. It raises an interesting question about the balance between sporting events and social responsibility. In the face of such tragedies, do you think there’s a shift in how athletes perceive their role in society?
Dr. Rodriguez: Definitely! Athletes like Marc Marquez are increasingly using their platforms to advocate for social justice and humanitarian issues. It reflects a growing awareness that they are not just sports figures but also role models and members of their communities. This shift is crucial, especially in times of crisis.
Editor: Well said. Lastly, how can fans of MotoGP contribute to the relief efforts?
Dr. Rodriguez: Fans can contribute in various ways, such as donating to local charities, participating in fundraising events, or even spreading the word about the needs of the affected communities. Every little bit helps, and the unity of the global MotoGP family can make a significant impact.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Rodriguez, for this enlightening conversation. The situation in Spain is indeed tragic, and it’s heartwarming to see the MotoGP community aligning their priorities towards those in need.
Dr. Rodriguez: Thank you for bringing attention to this issue. It’s essential that we all do our part during these difficult times.
Editor: Absolutely. We’ll continue to follow this story and update our readers on both the relief efforts and the future of MotoGP events. Thank you for joining us, and we appreciate your expertise.
Dr. Rodriguez: Thank you!