Marc Marquez: "Pecco can be a great help to us"

Marc Marquez has confirmed himself as MotoGP world champion for the first time since 2019. After years of injuries, setbacks, and uncertainty, the rider from Cervera finds his deserved redemption thanks to Ducati. And he closes the season with a highly symbolic message: "This championship is the most important of my life."

Statistics matter little—wrapping it up early, dominating like a steamroller. This time it was a personal battle, about facing doubts and fears. "I had to fight against many things, but above all against myself," he acknowledged in an interview with the MotoGP channel. And for a rider used to defying physics, confronting his own body and his limits was the ultimate challenge.

After the Mandalika crash, Marc Marquez can breathe a sigh of relief. This time it’s not serious and won’t compromise his physical condition for 2026. Doctors confirmed that the blow he suffered did not worsen any of the old injuries that marked the darkest chapter of his career. "I’m fine, really. And they’re happy too. Now it’s time to be more cautious and take advantage of having the whole winter ahead to recover calmly."

The just-ended World Championship saw him dominate over Pecco Bagnaia, who knew the Ducati Desmosedici better than he did. In 2026 the challenge resumes, with the nine-time world champion clearly favored. "Pecco’s speed is there. What he has done in MotoGP shows his level. He only needs a couple of months to get back on track."

He is convinced that the pre-season tests will be the turning point for his garage mate. "For us it’s important that ‘Pecco’ returns at his best. He’s very sensitive to the bike. That’s why he can help us a lot in the future. He has the necessary speed. He showed it in some practice sessions and races. You saw what he did at the Motegi GP, when he scored 37 points. I couldn’t catch him, not even when I attacked."

Bagnaia’s MotoGP season ended disappointingly, with only two wins. However, Marc Marquez is convinced that the rider from Chivasso can return to his previous form in a short time. "Sometimes everything can change in two months. Now is the perfect time for Pecco to regroup and start from zero at the Sepang tests."