Marc Marquez, seven-time MotoGP world champion, has put to rest widespread rumors of a dramatic Honda return, declaring his focus on building a new legacy with Ducati. After a victorious 2025 season with the Italian manufacturer, Marquez now addresses his intentions head-on, setting the record straight for fans, media, and the MotoGP community who have speculated about a Honda homecoming.
Marquez’s departure from Honda in 2023 marked the end of an era that included six titles and years of dominance, fueling hopes of a possible reunion as he continued to shine at the front of the grid. However, in a candid interview with Autosport, he dismissed any notion of rejoining Honda, characterizing the rumor as “more theory than practice.” After restoring his competitive edge with Ducati and clinching another world championship, Marquez’s attention is firmly locked on his current path.
Health and rehabilitation remain at the forefront of Marquez’s decisions as he navigates his next career moves. He explained,
“I’m not in a rush to make decisions about my future beyond 2026,”
— Marc Marquez, World Champion. He underscored the importance of his recovery, adding,
“I won’t take any decisions until I’m fully back on the bike. It’s a crucial choice, and I need to be absolutely certain.”
— Marc Marquez, World Champion.
Now relishing what he calls a prime period in his MotoGP career, Marquez emphasizes a more self-focused phase as he weighs future opportunities.
“It’s time to take the right decisions and be a bit selfish, focusing solely on what’s best for me,”
— Marc Marquez, World Champion. He notes his loyalty to Ducati and hints at a strong likelihood of staying with the manufacturer, forecasting an 80% chance of signing on through at least 2028.
Looking ahead, Marquez is granting himself a strategic two-week pause at the start of 2026 to reflect, physically recuperate, and make clear-headed choices about his next moves.
“I need to think clearly about my next steps,”
— Marc Marquez, World Champion.
The MotoGP technical landscape is set to evolve dramatically in 2027, creating uncertainty even for established champions. Marquez is acutely aware of the shifting dynamics and how they influence future decisions, stating,
“For 2027, no one guarantees you the best bike. Once it’s tested, decisions will be made. You have to trust your instincts. It’s going to be a year with everything to gain.”
— Marc Marquez, World Champion.
Despite persistent speculation about a sentimental return to Honda, the champion stands by Ducati and the performance advantage it offers.
“We have the fastest bike for the upcoming year, and that’s what matters most,”
— Marc Marquez, World Champion. While he recognizes his fit within Ducati’s framework, Marquez maintains a careful assessment of his own long-term interests and competitiveness in the paddock.
The rumor of a romanticized Honda reunion continues to spark lively debate among pundits and fans, but Marquez’s current stance offers little hope to those beliefs. With revived form and considerable leverage, a Ducati contract extension appears the logical next step for the reigning champion. Nevertheless, he leaves just a sliver of possibility open, suggesting that his ultimate choice will always serve his competitive fire over nostalgia.
“My heart might sway towards Tokyo if Honda produces the best 850cc engine in 2026,”
— Marc Marquez, World Champion.
As the MotoGP world turns its gaze to the shifting technical regulations and incoming championship contenders like Bezzecchi and Maverick Viñales, Marquez exemplifies determination and focus. Supporters, manufacturers, and fellow racers wait to see if he’ll cement his future at Ducati or weigh a surprise twist. For now, Marquez’s sights remain locked on the next triumph, racing into the future as a pillar of resolve, leaving all eyes on his unfolding journey.
