Marc Marquez is putting pressure on Ducati: a Plan B is ready

The MotoGP market has entered a phase of frenzied anticipation and negotiations. The 2026 season hasn’t even begun and it’s already time to think about 2027. The reason is simple: practically all riders’ contracts are expiring, and everyone is trying to secure the best solution. Ducati remains the most coveted bike, Marc Marquez the most sought-after champion. How will the tug-of-war end? In any case, the men in red need an escape plan in case the superstar doesn’t renew.

The Borgo Panigale factory is aware that its bike is the most coveted, but it also knows that riders have their own goals and demands. Marc Marquez did not hesitate to make his intentions clear during the Champions in Celebration event. The rider from Cervera wants to keep wearing red, but not at any price and not without conditions.

His statement of intent was as honest as it was calculated. "On a scale from 0 to 10, I want to be an 8 at Ducati, but there are many things to consider. Everything is still uncertain for 2027–2028; all options will be uncertain," explained the MotoGP champion. For him, brand loyalty matters, but performance is paramount. "The priority is to be fast, and at Ducati I can be, but I will also need to understand many things and decide what’s best for my future."

What really set off the alarm was the Spaniard’s haste. Marc Marquez does not want to wait long to sign; he has made very specific demands that must be met. "I’m giving myself two weeks to think about my future, two weeks to make the right decision, the best one for me."

Faced with this pressure, Ducati made a first move with Nicolò Bulega. The Superbike rider has three days of testing scheduled, which could be extended to five during 2026. He will be responsible for developing the future 850cc Ducati, equipped with Pirelli tires. Bulega’s name would certainly please Aruba, so he’s another one added to the list of candidates alongside Pedro Acosta, Fermin Aldeguer, Alex Marquez, and others.

Claudio Domenicali is trying to keep calm in front of the microphones. He knows he has a complex puzzle in his hands, which also involves renewing the contract of his current champion. "Marc will go to market, and of course that will be something to consider. He is very happy with us, and vice versa, but everything is still pending."

Unlike Marquez’s urgency, the management of the Emilia-based company wants to take its time, at least until spring. "The market is open to everyone, but it’s too early to say now. I think the races will start in February or March." Is it just a matter of timing, or also financial considerations, and other demands and/or technical guarantees? "It’s not always easy to sign before the first race, even if there is a common will now. But it’s early," emphasized Claudio Domenicali, "and not all the pieces are ready to complete the puzzle."

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