Franco Morbidelli returns to the podium with VR46 in Argentina

Franco Morbidelli ends four-year podium drought with a strong performance at Termas de Río Hondo.

Franco Morbidelli of Italy and Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team Ducati during the race of the MotoGP of Argentina at Autodromo Termas de Rio Hondo on March 16, 2025, in Rio Hondo, Argentina. Photo by Gold & Goose/LAT Images

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

Franco Morbidelli secured his first MotoGP podium in four years at the Argentine Grand Prix, delivering a standout performance at the Termas de Río Hondo Circuit. The result marked not only his return to the top three but also his first podium with the VR46 Racing Team, making the moment even more special for the Italian rider.

Despite struggling with physical discomfort throughout the weekend, Morbidelli showed resilience and determination, overcoming dizziness and headaches that had affected his performance in practice sessions. In a hard-fought race, he held his ground against strong competition to cross the line in third place, a result that reaffirmed his ability to compete at the highest level.

A long-awaited return to the podium

Morbidelli had been chasing a return to the podium since his last top-three finish in Jerez in 2021. His struggles in recent seasons had led to questions about his form, but his result in Argentina demonstrated that he remains a competitive force in MotoGP.

"This is the podium we've been waiting for for four years," said Morbidelli, visibly emotional after the race. "It's an incredible feeling to achieve it, especially with this team that deserves it."

Starting from eighth on the grid, Morbidelli faced intense pressure from his rivals, particularly from reigning world champion Francesco Bagnaia, who shadowed him for much of the race. However, with a well-executed strategy and remarkable composure, he managed to maintain his position and secure a long-overdue podium finish.

A special moment for Morbidelli and VR46

Morbidelli’s achievement was particularly meaningful given his close connection to the VR46 Racing Team. As one of the original members of the VR46 Academy, he has a longstanding relationship with team founder Valentino Rossi, who has played a significant role in his career.

Adding to the emotional weight of the occasion was the location of his success. The Argentine Grand Prix holds personal significance for Morbidelli due to his Brazilian heritage, making the podium finish even more memorable.

"My mother is from Brazil, and to get a podium on this continent is very special. I only realized it after the race, and that made the moment even more emotional. I want to dedicate this podium to the whole team—they deserved it," Morbidelli said.

Overcoming challenges on and off the track

Morbidelli's road to the podium was far from easy. In addition to the on-track battles, he had to contend with his own physical limitations. Throughout the weekend, he had reported headaches and dizziness, raising concerns about his ability to compete at full strength. However, on race day, he managed to push through the discomfort and deliver one of his strongest performances in recent years.

"I felt much better today than yesterday," he noted after the race, suggesting that his condition had improved just in time for the main event.

His ability to remain focused and composed under pressure was a key factor in his success. With Bagnaia breathing down his neck, Morbidelli knew that any mistake could cost him a podium. Yet, he maintained his rhythm and avoided errors, proving his mental toughness.

"I knew the pressure was going to come, but I tried to stay calm in the race, just like I have done in the last four years. And it worked," he said.

A turning point in his career?

Franco Morbidelli of Italy and Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team Ducati celebrates on the podium during the MotoGP of Argentina at Autodromo Termas de Rio Hondo on March 16, 2025, in Rio Hondo, Argentina. Photo by Gold & Goose/LAT Images

Morbidelli’s podium in Argentina could mark a turning point in his MotoGP career. After enduring a difficult few seasons, this result is a reminder of his talent and potential. It also sends a strong message to the paddock that he remains a capable contender.

As the season progresses, Morbidelli will be eager to build on this momentum and challenge for more podium finishes. His performance at Termas de Río Hondo suggests that he is regaining the form that once made him a title contender.

As he celebrated his success in true MotoGP fashion, Morbidelli couldn’t help but joke about the long wait for his return to the podium. "I can finally enjoy this Prosecco better," he laughed, referring to the traditional podium champagne celebration.

With this result, Morbidelli has reignited his career and given the VR46 Racing Team plenty to celebrate. The focus now shifts to the next race, where he will aim to continue his resurgence and prove that this podium was just the beginning of a new chapter in his MotoGP journey.