Media activities are a big part of any driver’s program; Some love it, some hate it, but they’re a mandatory part of the job description for those aiming to reach the top of motorsport.
When working in the paddock, journalists will often have a few drivers who they know will provide good answers to their questions.
example – Fabio Quartararo is TNT Sport’s favorite rider to interview.as a producer sat down and emphasized how ‘beautiful’ he was.
On the other hand, certain drivers make life a little more difficult for on-site writers.
Former MotoGP rider-turned-pundit Neil Hodgson recalled how Andrea Inon was the worst ‘perfect’ person to ask a question to.Noting how rude he had been before.
Where should Valentino Rossi take his VR46 team in 2027?
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Jack Appleyard names Franco Morbidelli as the most challenging MotoGP rider to interview
When appearing on Motorsport Republic Podcastmotorcycle racing journalist Jack Appleyard was asked about his role as MotoGP’s lead presenter on World Food at the race weekend.
Having previously noted that Francesco Bagnaia was an ‘exciting’ rider to interview, Appleyard was asked who was the most challenging competitor for an answer.
He replied: “The back and forth is probably what I enjoy the most.” Frankie Morbidelli. Frankie and I have very different personalities, and sometimes we clash.
“Frankie can be very short and sharp with his answers and he likes to hold you back. If you ask a closed-ended question like, ‘Frankie, that was a good day, wasn’t it?'” he’ll go ‘yes.’
“Sometimes you can work it to your advantage. I got a nice little interview clip with him. There was one thing he did well, and it was up in the air that he was going to stay with Yamaha.”
“So I asked him, ‘It must be a big result for your future with Yamaha.’ He said, ‘Who said I want to stay with Yamaha?’ ‘good and you?’ It was.
He just looked at the camera and just went: Lynn (Ask Jarvis). The back and forth was great. So yes, sometimes Frankie can be good fun.
- Read more: The five MotoGP riders at risk of losing their seats in 2026, including Francesco Bagnaio
Once ‘protected’ by VR46, Franco Morbidelli’s future at the team seems uncertain.
As the first member of Valentino Rossi VR46 Riders AcademyMorbidelli has enjoyed learning from the Italian MotoGP legend since joining forces with him in Tavullia in 2013.
Fittingly, Morbidelli served as the doctor’s team-mate before retiring in his final year in the sport, before being given the green light to replace Maverick Vinales at the factory Yamaha team next season.
The Italian rider met with his mentor in 2025, who claimed a seat on Rossi’s VR46 Racing MotoGP outfit.
Despite his excellent results, Morbidelli’s image has been marred by his role in numerous on-track incidents throughout the year.
According to a recent report. VR46 refuse to continue the protection of Franco Morbidelli Hear from Bad Boy if it continues in the new season.
If that happens, it remains to be seen what will happen to the Italian’s premier class career after that.
