Pets are an integral part to most families these days, and MotoGP riders are no different. If you follow any of the riders on social media, the chances are you’ve seen them brag about their furry friends, and often say how important they are in helping them de-stress in the off season. So, who are the pets of the paddock?
Álex MArquez, and Stitch and Shira
The true celebrities of the Marquez family, little dachshunds Stitch and Shira are staples on Alex’s Instagram. Known as Mrs Shira and Mr Stitch, Álex is keen to share that they are not siblings- so “maybe they will be married one day”. The love they have for each other is clear, with the pair often found curled up on Álex. They have even featured on a race-day helmet!
Marc Marquez, and… Stitch and Shira
The adoptive dad of Stitch and Shira, Álex has joked that he takes them to the vet, and Marc uses them for Instagram! Although looking through Marc’s social media feeds, it’s not too far from the truth. As with Álex, Marc and the duo have a very close relationship, with them keeping Marc company when recovering from injuries, or accompanying on training sessions when he’s feeling fit. Shira is slightly darker coloured, whilst Stitch is the more ginger tone, if you were wondering.
Aleix Espargaró, and Pippa and Zuki
Another pair of long-standing family members, beagles Pippa and Zuki are well loved by Aleix, Laura, and their children, Max and Mia. It’s hard to be certain how old Pippa and Zuki are, but puppy photos were posted in 2012/2013, with the pups cementing their place at all the big Espargaró family events- including Laura’s pregnancy announcement. They are often found hiking around the beautiful mountains of Andorra as a family (or cuddling with Aleix).
Joan Mir, and his pack
Joan Mir is the proud dad to 4 dogs now- Kirbi, Dakota, Bruno, and Arlo, along with his wife, Alejandra. Little French Bulldog Kirbi, and Dakota, the bigger, black dog, have been around for the longest. Bruno, the grey and white Frenchie joined the family in 2020, and Cane Corso Arlo was welcomed in October 2022. Alejandra regularly posts updates on her Instagram, and it’s clear Joan feels the love when he comes home on breaks.
Brad Binder, and his family’s menagerie
Whilst Brad doesn’t necessarily have any pets of his own, he revealed in an interview with MotoGP during lockdown that his family are proud owners of 2 parrots in their time. Oscar the Macaw has been with the family since his brother, Darryn, was born. According to Brad, Oscar is known for intimidating their voices, and even telling their dogs what to do!
Takaaki Nakagami, and his dogs
Taka has 2 little Frenchies, who spend most of their time with his family back in Japan. He facetimes them regularly, and they go “crazy” when they hear him. Taka has said how important it is for him to go home, and that seeing his family and the dogs helps him recharge the batteries and get the motivation to carry on.
Pecco Bagnaia, and little Turbo
The Ducati dachshund joined Pecco and his now fiancée Domizia in early 2022, and has made himself a cosy part of their little family. Aptly named, Turbo seems to be giving Pecco the strength he needed, as he went on to win the World Championship that same year. When he’s not snoozing, Turbo is off on adventures with Domizia around Italy.
Enea Bastianini, and Hagrid
Yet another rider joining the Frenchie frenzy, Hagrid came home with Enea and his girlfriend, Alice, in 2020. In case it was not clear, Harry Potter is Enea’s favourite film, with Hagrid being his favourite character. Hagrid has been featured in every family Christmas photo since, and even joined for a moped ride around Mugello!
Marco Bezzecchi, and Rubik
Bez has had Rubik since 2021, and refers to him as him his “migliore amico” (best friend). Whenever there is a break in the calendar, you can guarantee Marco will be posting a photo with Rubik.
Maverick Viñales, and Minnie
Like every other dog on this list, Minnie is another overly-pampered pooch. Recently turning 6, you can keep up with all her travels on her own Instagram – @labradorminnie. Minnie was bought home in 2017, when Maverick was with his then-girlfriend Cristina Llovera. Now they are no longer together, Minnie seems to spend most of her time with Cristina in Andorra, but clearly still has a big spot in Maverick’s heart.
Pol Espargaró, and Eina
Eina the Huskey has been with Pol since 2014, and spends most of her time exploring the beautiful Andorran countryside. Growing up alongside Aleix’s Pippa and Zuki, she is clearly a key member of the Espargaró family
Augusto Fernández, and his… bunnies?
Whilst it doesn’t seem that Augusto has any pets at home, he never seems to be far from 2 fetching white bunnies. Make of that what you will…
Jorge Martín, and Kaula
Beagles and Frenchies are clearly the top breeds of this paddock! Kaula the Beagle was bought home in 2020, and also has her own Instagram- @88kaula. She never seems to be far from Jorge’s side during breaks.
Jack Miller, and Bruce
Whilst we don’t know much about Bruce (apart from him being another Frenchie!), as Jack seems to keep him quite private, he clearly brings nothing but joy to Jack.
Franco Morbidelli, and his animals
Like Jack, Franky seems to keep his pet life quite private, but we do know that he is an animal lover. Axel the Alsatian is seen below, and according to an interview with MotoGP, he also looks after Lidia the Cat, and Vittoria the Turtle. The turtle love obviously runs strong in the VR46 world!
Alex Rins, and Olivia, Paco and Pepe
The Rins family is completed with Olivia the Weimaraner, Pepe the Poodle, and Paco the Frenchie, who joined the pack in 2018. They join the select club of paddock pets with their own Instagram! You can be kept up to date their antics at @olipacoandpepe
Fabio Quartararo, and his dog-loving personality
Whilst Fabio doesn’t have any pets of his own, he never seems to be far from someone else’s! It’s clear that Fabio has a soft spot for dogs, as whenever he’s home in Andorra, we seem to get a flurry of Instagram updates showing off his friends various pets. Hopefully he’ll get his own soon!
Luca Marini, and Chanel and Wendy
Quite possibly the most glamourous pets of the paddock, Chanel and Wendy are well-spoilt by Luca and his fiancée, Marta. Chanel is the older of the 2 pups, and Wendy arrived from Hong Kong in 2019.
Fabio Digiannantonio, and a cat
It’s hard to tell if this little brown and beige cat is Fabio’s personally, or his family’s, as they appeared in a Christmas Instagram post. either way, they sure look well pampered!
Honorable mentions…
According to a recent interview with MotoGP, Raul Fernandez revealed he has a pet rabbit, named Hulio, although we are yet to see any photos.
For anyone who watches BT Sport commentary, you will be well aware of Moto2 rider, Jake Dixon’s dog. Named Larry, he often features on Jake’s helmet designs.
If you know of any other riders who have a soft spot for their furry friends- feel free to let me know in the comments!
Elbows Down 
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