Marc Marquez Doubted MotoGP Future Before New Ducati Contract

Marc Marquez has admitted that he seriously questioned whether he wanted to continue as a full-time MotoGP rider beyond 2026. The 33-year-old Spaniard extended his contract with the Ducati Lenovo Team for two more seasons, keeping him with the Italian manufacturer until the end of 2028.

Speaking to TNT Sports at the British Grand Prix at Silverstone, Marquez revealed that his doubts were not about Ducati's competitive potential, but rather his physical condition. “I had doubts about whether I should continue,” he said. “But I always try to stay positive and told myself that I want to enjoy this. Right now, I can't imagine a life without a motorcycle.”

Injury Played a Key Role

The reigning MotoGP world champion suffered another serious injury to his right shoulder during the Indonesian Grand Prix at the end of 2025. After surgery and a lengthy rehabilitation, Marquez wanted to ensure his body could handle the demands of a MotoGP machine before committing. This explains why a new deal with Ducati took longer than initially expected.

Read AlsoPedro Acosta Gives Verdict on Revised MotoGP Radio Earplug

An agreement was eventually reached for two seasons, with Ducati officially announcing on June 23 that Marquez would remain with the factory team from Borgo Panigale through 2028. This also means Marquez will tackle the major technical regulation changes in 2027 with Ducati.

Honda Explored a Return

A return to Honda was also a possibility. Marquez previously confirmed that an informal meeting took place with Honda Racing Corporation representatives in Valencia at the end of 2025. However, he made it clear that Ducati was his first choice as long as he felt competitive and comfortable within the Italian MotoGP project.

Marquez raced for Honda from 2013 to 2023, winning six MotoGP titles with the Japanese manufacturer, but a homecoming was never a realistic option. He reaffirmed his commitment to Ducati, which has given him a platform to fight at the front again.

Acosta to Join as Teammate in 2027

Starting in 2027, Marquez will have a new and highly talented teammate: Pedro Acosta. The young Spaniard will move from Red Bull KTM Factory Racing to Ducati Lenovo Team, replacing Francesco Bagnaia. Ducati will then field two Spanish riders from different generations, with Marquez bringing vast experience and titles, while Acosta represents one of the greatest talents of his generation.

The new contract is a clear statement from Marquez: despite the injuries and the doubts they caused, his hunger for racing has not diminished. If he serves his full contract, the 33-year-old will remain active at the highest level until he is 35.