MotoGP, Sportrik Media - Ducati has confirmed that 2025 MotoGP world champion Marc Marquez will not compete in the remaining races due to a severe right shoulder injury sustained at the Indonesian Grand Prix. Consequently, this decision prioritizes full recovery ahead of the 2026 season, despite Marquez missing the final two rounds in Portugal and Valencia. Furthermore, Ducati Corse notes that the clinical progress of the coracoid fracture and ligament damage is positive, requiring four weeks of complete arm immobilization followed by rehabilitation.
The incident stemmed from a first-lap collision with Marco Bezzecchi of Aprilia at Mandalika, causing a fracture and ligament tears in Marquez's shoulder. Initial Madrid checks post-race deemed surgery unnecessary, but a week later, doctors opted for an operation due to suboptimal healing. Therefore, Marquez has already sat out Australia and Malaysia, and his participation in Portugal was deemed highly unlikely. Marquez himself remarked, “We know a tough winter awaits, with much work to restore my muscles to 100% and be ready for 2026.”
Injury Background and Implications
This setback not only halts Marquez mid-celebration of his seventh MotoGP title but also impacts Ducati's initial 2026 bike testing in Valencia next month. Additionally, general manager Gigi Dall’Igna fully endorses the medical advice, stating, “We knew the chances of having Marc in Valencia were very low. The priority is to recover 100% for next season.” However, Marquez's absence is a significant loss for the team, given his pivotal role in prototype development.
Historically, the 32-year-old Marquez has demonstrated remarkable resilience, yet recurrent injuries underscore the need for biological recovery timelines. Thus, Ducati's conservative approach avoids long-term risks, even at the cost of losing their star rider for the season's end.
Temporarily, Ducati is utilizing test rider Michele Pirro to substitute for Marquez this weekend in Malaysia. Moreover, the team promises to reveal the stand-in for Portugal and Valencia in due course. Speculation intensifies around World Superbike runner-up Nicolo Bulega securing the role, leveraging his Ducati ties. Nevertheless, no final announcement has been made, adding intrigue to team dynamics.
From an expertise lens, Sportrik Media, drawing on extensive MotoGP injury and strategy analysis, deems this move prudent for Ducati's long-term dominance. That said, Marquez's absence may affect team morale following this year's championship triumph.
Marquez concluded his statement appreciatively: “The great goal we achieved this year—becoming world champions again—must not be overshadowed, and soon we will celebrate it together.” Therefore, attention now shifts to intensive winter rehabilitation, ensuring Marquez returns at peak condition for 2026. Furthermore, Ducati anticipates productive Valencia testing without him, bolstered by engineers like Dall’Igna.
Looking forward, this episode serves as a reminder of health priorities amid fierce competition. Consequently, Sportrik Media is optimistic about Marquez's stronger comeback, solidifying his legacy as a MotoGP icon. Thus, fans can look forward to title celebrations and anticipation for a promising new season.
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