Ducati announce blockbuster signing of Marc Marquez
Six-time MotoGP world champion Marc Marquez is set to join Ducati’s factory MotoGP team for the next two seasons, creating a formidable duo with reigning two-time premier-class champion Francesco Bagnaia. Together, they boast an impressive 11 world titles between them, making them a powerhouse in the sport.
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Marquez's first season with Ducati has already created significant buzz in the MotoGP rider market. Ahead of the Italian Grand Prix, Marquez made headlines by rejecting a Ducati plan that would have seen him ride for the second-tier Pramac Ducati team in 2025. This decision opened the door for current Pramac rider and championship leader Jorge Martin to join Bagnaia as his teammate next year. However, fearing the potential loss of Marquez to another manufacturer, Ducati dramatically reversed its decision after last Sunday's race at Mugello, withdrawing its offer to Martin. Consequently, a spurned Martin signed with Aprilia just 24 hours later, and Marquez's move to Ducati was confirmed on Wednesday morning, European time.
Marquez's transition to Ducati marks a significant change after 11 seasons with Honda. This year, he has been riding a 2023-specification Ducati for satellite team Gresini Racing. Despite being on a hand-me-down bike that Bagnaia used to win last year’s world title, Marquez currently sits third in the world championship standings. He has consistently challenged both Martin and Bagnaia for race wins, proving that he has not lost any of his speed despite the multiple surgeries he underwent following an accident in the opening race of the 2020 season at Jerez.
Marquez will replace Italian rider Enea Bastianini, who is expected to sign with KTM’s GasGas team in place of star rookie Pedro Acosta. Acosta was recently named as Jack Miller’s replacement at the KTM factory team for next year during the Mugello weekend. This reshuffling of riders highlights the intense and competitive nature of MotoGP, where teams constantly strive to build the strongest line-ups.
The addition of Marquez to Ducati's factory team is expected to significantly impact the championship race. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how the new partnership between Marquez and Bagnaia will unfold and whether they can dominate the MotoGP circuit. With their combined experience and skill, Ducati is poised to be a major contender in the upcoming seasons.