Marc Marquez has addressed speculation surrounding the delay in his new MotoGP contract with Ducati, attributing the hold-up to his ongoing physical recovery. After a dominant 2025 season with Ducati culminating in his seventh world championship, many expected Marquez to confirm his continuation with the factory team for 2027. However, while rumors circulated that an agreement was already in place, no official announcement has been made, sparking reports of disagreements over contract length.
Marquez clarified that his hesitation to agree to Ducati’s preferred two-year contract stems largely from the unresolved condition of the shoulder injury he sustained last October. He emphasized that his health remains the priority before committing to any long-term deal.
We are working on it with Ducati, but the ideal for them is two years because, if not, you are in the middle of nowhere [between contract cycles],
Marquez said during Saturday’s Buriram test.
He added,
But at the moment, the most important thing for me was to start the pre-season feeling better and better.
Progress in Recovery Influences Contract Decisions
Marquez expressed cautious optimism about his physical improvements, noting incremental progress between recent test sessions. He stressed the importance of being confident about his condition before signing, stating that the injury remains his biggest obstacle.
I feel a small step, but a step, between Malaysia test and here,
he remarked, continuing,
So, let’s see if I feel better with my physical condition, and if I feel like today, where I felt a small step in my shoulder, and tomorrow another one, it will not be a problem for me to sign a two-year contract.
He reflected on lessons learned from injury management, cautioning against making contractual commitments while still recovering.
It’s [the injury] my biggest limitation. It’s what I learned: when you are injured, you cannot make any decisions and sign any contracts.
Marquez also acknowledged that not all athletes delay decisions this way.
It’s true that somebody will do it, because if you have the contract there, even if you are injured, [you need to make a decision],
he said.
He further described ongoing efforts with Ducati to manage the situation positively.
It’s coming in a good way, still some job to do. So, for that reason, we are working with Ducati in a good way too.
Details on Crashes During Buriram Test Session
Though Marquez finished the Buriram test second overall on Saturday, he experienced two crashes during the session. He explained that the initial incident happened after he ran over the circuit’s slippery white lines. The second crash, he said, resulted from a lack of concentration after dealing with a stomach illness throughout the day.
When I got up, I saw that it would be a difficult day, because I had a stomach problem,
he explained.
He described the first crash:
Then I started the day in the worst way possible with that crash in the last turn in the second lap, where I touched the white lines.
He noted that the painted surface was unexpectedly slick, but track conditions improved after rubber built up.
Then everybody realised how slippery the white lines were; it was something to do with the paint. Then, step-by-step, we got rubber there and it got better and better.
Regarding the afternoon crash, Marquez admitted fatigue led to an error in focus.
The second crash was my mistake, lack of focus. The fact I was super tired today with the stomach problems, I was not focused enough. Then in the afternoon I came back with energy.
Future Outlook for Marquez and Ducati Partnership
Marc Marquez’s cautious approach to his Ducati contract underlines the significance of his physical readiness ahead of continuing his MotoGP career. With progress evident but recovery still ongoing, both Marquez and Ducati appear committed to reaching an agreement once his condition further improves. The delay reflects a responsible stance by the reigning world champion, prioritizing his health to sustain competitive performance. Observers of the MotoGP season will be watching closely as Marquez’s recovery advances and contract decisions emerge in the coming months.
