Marco Bezzecchi
Ducati reportedly want their association with MotoGP legend Marc Marquez to continue beyond the Spaniard’s retirement.
Marquez started riding a Ducati in 2024, albeit in Gresini colours, after ending his long and historic stint at Honda. He then stepped up to the factory team in 2025 and became their third MotoGP champion after Casey Stoner and Francesco Bagnaia.
While Marquez is unlikely to retain his title this year after suffering another injury that will keep him out of at least two Grands Prix (France and Catalonia), his unique stature in the sport means his value extends beyond the race track.
Was Marc Marquez right to keep his nerve problem a secret from Ducati?
Ducati eye ambassador position for Marc Marquez
Despite speculation to the contrary, MARCA say that Marquez has signed the ‘same’ two-year deal as Pedro Acosta, which should keep him on the red bike until at least the end of 2028.
Marquez preferred to sign a one-plus-one contract but Ducati pointed out that this would make forward planning difficult. Riders like Fermin Aldeguer, who is moving from Gresini to VR46 next year, are seen as the future of the brand.
Marquez did insist, however, that the deal included ‘exit clauses’ amid concerns over his physical condition. It’s unclear what conditions are attached to these clauses, but Ducati have vowed to respect his decision.
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While Marquez didn’t tell Ducati about the nerve problem that necessitated fresh shoulder surgery (in addition to foot repairs after Le Mans Sprint crash), their relationship is still ‘perfect’. Indeed, Ducati would like to keep him as a ‘brand ambassador’ after he retires from racing, a role once held by Stoner.
Honda may have earmarked Marquez for such a position if they can’t re-sign beforehand, but Ducati are hopeful they can capitalise on his ‘commercial and media appeal’ instead.
Why Marc Marquez won’t bring Red Bull sponsorship to Ducati
There has been ‘much talk’ that Marquez’s longtime personal sponsor Red Bull could link up with Ducati next year, replacing Monster Energy.
However, MARCA say that Ducati’s deal with Monster runs until the end of 2027, precluding such an arrangement for the time being.
A report last month claimed Monster could split with Yamaha at the end of the season. If they wish to remain involved in MotoGP, then that will make their partnership with Ducati even more important.
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