Marc Marquez expects to feel “super good” on the initial day of his MotoGP comeback during the Sepang test but anticipates a decline afterward due to his recovering shoulder. The injury occurred after a collision with Marco Bezzecchi at the Indonesian MotoGP on October 5, just a week following his ninth world championship victory.
Initial Strength and Physical Challenges Ahead
Marquez explained that he can perform well at a normal level for one day; however, the second day tends to bring a notable drop in his physical capabilities. He noted that Malaysia presents a demanding test for all riders, especially in terms of maintaining consistency across consecutive days.
I can ride really well at a normal level for one day, but then the second day I drop a lot,
Marc Marquez said at the Ducati team launch.
Even just to go two days in a row in the gym – on the second day, I cannot perform well. Something that I achieved last year. But I think that we [are improving] in a good way, and for riding a bike for one single day, I’m already at my normal level.
Focus on Physical Recovery Over Speed Concerns
Before his injury, the 32-year-old Spaniard had earned 25 wins across sprints and Grand Prix races. He stressed that his speed is not a major concern if his physical condition is properly managed.
It’s what I understood with the last injury; if I feel well with my physical condition, the speed is there,
Marquez clarified.
For that reason, I was not worried to miss the Valencia test, I was not worried to miss the Valencia race, because my weak point is my physical side. So if I take care about this, the speed is there.
Impact on Ducati GP26 Development and Testing Schedule
Marquez’s absence during the final rounds of the previous season and the Valencia test meant he missed direct involvement in advancing the Ducati GP26 development. He shared that the team will begin with their 2025 base bike and incorporate new upgrades aimed at improving aerodynamics and engine performance, although engine modifications remain limited due to regulatory freezes.
We will start with our 2025 base and from that point introduce the new things,
he explained.
They told me they have a big list, so as you will see we will work on the aerodynamics to try to turn better, we will work on the engine – we cannot change, but we have different parts [around the engine freeze] to try to increase a bit the top speed.
So basically my base was good, then Alex and Pecco gave some good comments in the Valencia test, and we will keep going to be the best bike, manufacturer next year.
Upcoming Tests and Season Start
The official Sepang test is scheduled from February 3 to 5, followed by another test at Buriram on February 21 and 22. A week after the Buriram test, Marquez will begin his title defense at the Thai MotoGP season opener, marking the next significant step in his MotoGP comeback.
