Marc Marquez, the reigning 2025 MotoGP champion, is under pressure as he attempts to defend his title this season while recovering from a serious right shoulder injury sustained at the Indonesian Grand Prix last year. Although he demonstrated strong form after joining Ducati and clinching the title in record time, Marquez’s ongoing shoulder problems have affected his 2026 campaign, raising doubts about his ability to secure another championship.
After undergoing surgery in October for a coracoid fracture and ligament damage, Marquez did not return to MotoGP testing until February at Sepang, where he began efforts to regain fitness. Despite his dedication, he remains below peak condition, continuing to manage pain and limited strength in his shoulder. These physical setbacks have compelled him to use Ducati’s 2024 aerodynamic setup this season, which demands less effort but could impact performance.
Starting 2026, Marquez showed promise with a second-place finish in the Buriram Sprint and was competitive in the podium battle at the Thailand Grand Prix before a puncture forced him out. His current form illustrates both his resilience and the obstacles that his injury still presents on the track.
Potential Title Contenders Rise Amid Marquez’s Physical Uncertainty
Johann Zarco, a prominent rider from the LCR team, expressed confidence that if Marquez fully recovers, the Spaniard will likely secure his eighth premier class title. Zarco emphasized that Marquez’s fitness is the critical factor in the championship’s outcome.
However, Zarco also highlighted that if Marquez’s shoulder problems persist and hinder his performance, other riders could challenge for the championship. Aprilia’s Marco Bezzecchi and Gresini’s Alex Marquez, Marc’s younger brother, are among the leading contenders, with Ducati’s Francesco Bagnaia also expected to be competitive.
Zarco commented on the emerging rivalry:
“I see a very strong Marco Bezzecchi. If he starts where he finished, he will certainly be there for the world championship fight. But I definitely see Marc with a much bigger margin than the others.”
He added,
“For me, Marc will be the world champion, unless he surprises us with shoulder problems. In that case, it would be a fight between Alex and Bez. And Pecco will be there too, for sure.”
But if we are talking about surprises, I’ll tell you the other two. Pecco can’t be considered a surprise. Alex Marquez can.
— Johann Zarco, LCR Rider
Marc Marquez and His Brother Alex Struggle to Maintain 2025 Momentum
In 2025, the Marquez brothers made MotoGP history by finishing first and second overall, with Marc securing the title five races before the season’s end and Alex concluding well ahead of other competitors. This achievement set high expectations for their continued dominance.
However, the results after the opening round of the 2026 season in Thailand have revealed a different reality. Marc Marquez currently ranks eighth in the championship, while Alex is last among 22 riders following a disappointing weekend in Buriram where he failed to secure any points.
Adding to the challenges, Marc’s penalty in the Buriram Sprint race handed victory to Pedro Acosta, who also finished second in the main Thailand Grand Prix, taking the early lead in the championship standings. Marco Bezzecchi won the Thailand GP, taking advantage of Marquez’s mechanical issue after he hit the curb at Turn 4 and damaged his wheel rim.
Outlook for the 2026 MotoGP Season as Marquez Battles to Reclaim Form
The ongoing physical hurdles faced by Marc Marquez have introduced a significant element of uncertainty into the 2026 MotoGP season. His ability to regain full strength and adapt his riding style with Ducati’s modified aerodynamic package will likely determine whether he can repeat his championship success or if emerging rivals will capitalize on his difficulties.
The presence of strong contenders like Marco Bezzecchi, Alex Marquez, and Francesco Bagnaia means the title fight could become highly competitive, especially if Marquez’s recovery is slower than hoped. Early season results suggest the championship battle is wide open, turning attention toward each upcoming race as riders vie to impose themselves in this evolving championship landscape.
