MotoGP, Sportrik Media - Johann Zarco has identified Marc Marquez as the clear favourite for the 2026 MotoGP world title, despite acknowledging the late-season momentum of Marco Bezzecchi and the progress shown by Aprilia. The French rider believes Marquez holds a decisive advantage that will be difficult to overturn.
Speaking during a training session in Cartagena, Zarco assessed the current competitive landscape and suggested that while Bezzecchi and Aprilia may disrupt the balance, they are unlikely to dethrone Marquez outright. In his view, the Spaniard’s blend of raw speed, experience, and renewed maturity makes him the benchmark entering the new campaign.
“We know Marc Marquez is the favourite for the title.”
“To shake Ducati, yes, but they will never overthrow Marquez. He has too many advantages. He is too fast. For the championship, definitely Marquez, unless something unexpected happens. Bezzecchi can be between Ducati and finish second or third, but he will not overthrow Marquez.”
Zarco also pointed to Marquez’s evolution in race management following his injury struggles and technical transitions in recent seasons. He believes the multiple world champion has refined his ability to balance aggression with risk control — a crucial factor in the current era of aerodynamics, tyre management, and strategic execution.
“He has taken another step forward in his ability to dominate the championship. Maybe now he is more mature to fight for the title. He reflects on his mistakes. He makes very few errors and has returned to his best level.”
According to Zarco, Marquez’s natural talent is complemented by a competitive mentality that separates him from the field. He suggested that this psychological edge, combined with a competitive technical package, creates a formidable foundation for sustained success.
“He is talented, without a doubt. And he has an incredible bike. That creates an extraordinary balance. But his fighting spirit goes beyond the average athlete. He is at a different level.”
Beyond the MotoGP title fight, Zarco also commented on the emerging generation in Moto2, highlighting Barry Baltus, David Alonso, and Daniel Holgado as strong contenders this season, alongside Manuel Gonzalez.
As the 2026 season approaches, Zarco’s assessment underscores the central narrative: while challengers may apply pressure, Marquez’s combination of technical harmony and competitive maturity positions him as the rider to beat. The question now shifts to whether Aprilia and its leading riders can convert momentum into sustained championship resistance.
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