Ducati Extends Michele Pirro as Marc Marquez's Stand-In for 2025 Malaysian MotoGP

MotoGP, Sportrik Media - Ducati has confirmed that test rider Michele Pirro will continue replacing injured world champion Marc Marquez at next weekend's Malaysian Grand Prix in Sepang. Meanwhile, Aprilia announced that Jorge Martin will also miss the round due to injury.

Ducati sporting director Mauro Grassilli spoke to Dorna's Jack Appleyard during opening practice at Phillip Island, avoiding specifics on Marquez's return timeline. However, when asked about MotoGP's medical director suggesting Marquez is unlikely to race in the penultimate Portimao round after Sepang, Grassilli replied: “We don't know… We have daily contact with [Marc’s management], but we're not sure. But I can confirm that Michele Pirro will be in Malaysia for the next race. When will we see Marc? Maybe we'll have more information in the next days.”

Sportrik Media's in-depth analysis indicates this decision reflects Ducati's caution with Marquez's recovery, given his right shoulder fracture and ligament damage from a collision with Marco Bezzecchi on the opening lap of the Indonesian MotoGP. Initially hoping to skip surgery, insufficient progress after a week necessitated the procedure. Marquez has targeted a return before the season ends in Valencia mid-November but won't rush, drawing lessons from his premature 2020 arm fracture comeback.

Pirro Remains Primary Choice, Door Open for Star Substitute

Pirro was initially appointed only for Australia, with Ducati's WorldSBK riders available from Sepang as their season wraps in Jerez this weekend. With Marquez deemed unlikely for Portimao and doubtful for Valencia, opportunities for a high-profile replacement like WorldSBK title contender Nicolo Bulega remain wide open. This transition heightens end-of-season tension, as Ducati must sustain momentum without its icon.

Independent doctors estimate Marquez's injury requires a 16-week recovery, highlighting premature racing risks. Sportrik Media views Ducati's approach, via Grassilli, as a long-term commitment to rider health, potentially impacting team strategies in closing rounds.

Furthermore, Marquez's absence allows Pirro further proof of his mettle. As an experienced test rider, Pirro has adapted quickly at Phillip Island, though Sepang's hot, demanding conditions pose a fresh test. Ducati is also eyeing WorldSBK options to bolster squad depth amid a packed schedule.

Jorge Martin Out, Tech3 Without Vinales

Aprilia confirmed during FP1 at Phillip Island that Jorge Martin will skip the Malaysian Grand Prix. The outgoing champion fractured his collarbone colliding with teammate Bezzecchi at Turn 1 of the Motegi Sprint, his latest injury in a grueling year. With Tech3's Maverick Vinales already ruled out, test riders Pirro (Ducati), Lorenzo Savadori (Aprilia), and Pol Espargaro (KTM) will continue at Sepang.

This setup creates a more open grid, benefiting Ducati's Alex Marquez and Francesco Bagnaia against reduced top rivals. Yet, Martin's absence raises questions for Aprilia's dynamics, especially with his upcoming Ducati switch.

In broader terms, this injury wave underscores 2025 MotoGP's intensity, sidelining three major circuit winners. Sportrik Media sees opportunities for young talents like Pedro Acosta, though Bezzecchi's Mandalika penalty adds complexity.

Injury Impact and End-Season Strategies

Marquez and Martin's injuries affect not just individuals but team standings. As the dominant outfit, Ducati relies on squad depth to hold its edge, while Aprilia navigates transition challenges. Grassilli's daily contact with Marquez's management signals a holistic approach blending medical and performance aspects.

Moreover, Marquez's surgery serves as a MotoGP safety reminder. Though his Valencia target is ambitious, recovery prioritization shows riders' evolving health attitudes. Sportrik Media adds that Bulega's potential entry could inject unpredictability, given his strong WorldSBK form.

Outlook for 2025 Malaysian MotoGP

Overall, the Malaysian Grand Prix emerges as a pivotal test for Ducati and Aprilia in managing absences, with Pirro and Savadori key to adaptation. Sportrik Media is confident Sepang will deliver competitive racing despite lacking Marquez and Martin, especially under tropical weather demanding smart tire strategies. Expectations mount for further updates on Marquez's return in coming days.

Sportrik Media will monitor injury developments and team announcements, providing deep analysis on 2025 MotoGP season-end implications.