Marc Marquez may have heard ‘rumours’ that Ducati already have a problem with their 2027 bike

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Ducati may already be experiencing an issue with one aspect of MotoGP’s new 2027 regulations, adding another reason for a possible departure from Marc Marquez ahead of the regulatory reset.

Despite it still being over a year away, MotoGP teams are already looking ahead to the new regulations that are set to take the premier class by storm in 2027.

One of the biggest changes that will be present is the smaller volume of engines. 850cc engines are replacing the current 1000cc engines, and they will be powered by 100% sustainable fuels.

KTM recently tested their new bike with Pol Espargaro, and MotoGP fans came together in celebration over the fact that the smaller volume of the power unit still produces the same ‘angry’ roar.

However, not everything will go to plan in such a key period of change. In Ducati’s case, things may already be going wrong for them.

• READ MORE: Dani Pedrosa teases exciting new rule change that will make MotoGP less ‘predictable’ in 2027

Ducati already have one issue with MotoGP’s 2027 regulations, and it could affect Marc Marquez’s future

According to a report by Motorpasion Moto, Ducati’s official fuel supplier, Shell, are currently on the back foot during the development race of the synthetic fuel that will power the 2027-spec MotoGP bikes.

The British oil and gas company are understood to have opted for a ‘different technique’ to develop their fuel, which is currently causing them problems.

Aramco, who supply the Aston Martin F1 Team, are believed to have the industry-leading synthetic fuel, whilst Shell, who supply both Scuderia Ferrari and Ducati, are said to have the least advanced.

Shell have a deal with Borgo Panigale that will run until the end of 2027, sparking a concern over what effect the sub-optimal fuel will have on their premier class prototypes.

What’s more, any engine they develop between now and then will be harmonious with the fuel, meaning that there may be some amendments they have to make with their power unit if they opt for a different supplier.

Marc Marquez has yet to commit his future to Ducati beyond the upcoming 2026 MotoGP season. The added jeopardy of potentially having a midfield-calibre engine could be a crucial factor in his decision.

• READ MORE: Five reasons Marc Marquez simply must leave Ducati and rejoin Honda for the 2027 MotoGP season

A return to Honda for Marc Marquez could be on the cards in 2027

One constructor who has been heavily linked with signing Marquez is the same one he entered the premier class with: Honda.

The partnership between the Spaniard and Japanese constructor was one of the most formidable that MotoGP has ever seen.

Marquez won six titles in his first seven years with the squad, and his 59 Grand Prix victories from 169 starts with the factory team in the premier class still stands as a record for Honda.

Legendary rider agent Carlo Pernat disclosed that Honda have already contacted Marquez over a possible reunion, but Pedro Acosta is also understood to be on their radar for the term.

Pernat has also noted that Ducati chief Luigi Dall’Igna could follow Marquez to Honda if he does opt for a return to the Asaka-based constructor.

Dall’Igna has been at Ducati since 2013, having previously served as the technical director at Aprilia.

Both he and Marquez have a good rapport, and after the Spaniard’s highly successful stint on Ducati machinery thus far, it’s no wonder that he might want to follow him elsewhere.