KTM manager responds to claims that Alex Marquez could join the team in 2027

Add as preferred source on Google

Alex Marquez isn’t thought to be a contender for a 2027 Ducati factory seat. That’s despite receiving a factory-spec bike for next year.

Marquez’s teammate Fermin Aldeguer is a strong contender to join Ducati, but none of the other satellite riders are seen as realistic options.

Speedweek say Marquez has ‘little chance’ of joining his brother at the Bologna outfit. Even finishing runner-up in the championship wasn’t enough to force his way into contention.

However, the 29-year-old has surely attracted the attention of rival factories. Marquez hasn’t represented an official team since his rookie year at Honda; he dropped down to LCR for the 2021 and ’22 campaigns before his switch to Gresini.

KTM say Alex Marquez claims are ‘not quite right’

In a recent interview with MOW, Carlo Pernat, the former manager of Tech3 rider Enea Bastianini, predicted that KTM would ‘bet on Alex Marquez’ if they lose Pedro Acosta.

But when the speculation was put to KTM manager Heinz Kinigadner, he said no approach had been made. The 2027 rider market is underway, however, with the first ‘informal discussions’ taking place.

“That’s not quite right,” said Kinigadner. “Not just Alex, but all the riders are checking where there are opportunities. There are many informal discussions. Everyone is knocking on doors everywhere.”

KTM are desperate to keep Acosta, but even if he stays, there could be an opening. Brad Binder is under pressure, though the Tech3 pair of Bastianini and Maverick Vinales would appear to be first in line for any vacancies.

The red flag that may prevent a factory team signing Alex Marquez

Marquez no longer feels ‘invisible’ after flourishing at Gresini. He’s formed a special connection with Nadia Padovani’s team that it would make it difficult for him to leave.

Indeed, the Spaniard has refused to discuss his future out of respect to his current employers. It’s therefore difficult to gauge what he’s planning.

While Alex Marquez was one of the best riders in 2025, he’s arguably shown that he can’t beat Marc – even on a superior bike.

That applies to most of the riders on the grid, of course, but Marquez says he’d be happy finishing second again next year, a statement that may indicate a lack of ambition.