Marc Marquez has minimized speculation about a potential return to Honda, stating his commitment to staying with Ducati as he pursues new milestones in MotoGP. The Marc Marquez Ducati future remains firmly in focus as he prioritizes his current team over revisiting his past with Honda.
Amiable Departure from Honda Leads to New Chapter
After leaving Honda a year ahead of his contract’s completion to join the Gresini squad for the 2024 season, Marquez parted ways with the Japanese manufacturer on good terms. The seven-time champion initially kept the option open to potentially reunite with Honda, although that scenario depended on Honda’s ability to bounce back after a dismal 2023 campaign.
Honda’s Progress and Ducati’s Rise to Power
Since Marquez’s exit, Honda has worked hard to climb back into contention, achieving a race victory and four podium finishes during the 2025 season. The effort elevated Honda into Group C of the MotoGP concessions, alongside Aprilia and KTM. Still, Marquez’s performance surge while riding for Ducati has made a switch back increasingly unlikely, as Ducati now provides him the opportunity to chase another world championship—something that eluded him in his final Honda years.
Discussion Over Contract Renewal and Future Plans
Industry insiders believe Marquez is close to extending his Ducati contract for another two years, effectively delaying any chance of a Honda return until at least 2029, by which time he would be 36 years old. When asked in November about a future Honda comeback—especially with major regulation changes looming in 2027—Marquez responded plainly:
“It’s more theory than practice. I’m not going to make any decisions while I’m injured or not on the bike. It’s an important decision, unless I’m absolutely sure about it.”
– Marc Marquez, Champion.
Strategic Decisions Ahead of the 2027 Regulation Shift
With significant regulation updates scheduled for 2027, uncertainty surrounds who will have the most competitive bike. Marquez reflected on the unpredictability of future seasons, stating,
In 2027, no one can guarantee you the best bike. When it’s tested, everything will be decided. You’ll have to trust your instincts. It will be a year in which everything is up for grabs. You have to manage it in the best way possible.
– Marc Marquez, Champion.
At Ducati’s Campioni in Festa gathering in December, Marquez emphasized his satisfaction with Ducati’s prospects, explaining,
“It’s clear that we have the fastest bike for next year, and that’s the most important thing.”
He further acknowledged the ambiguity of future seasons, saying,
For 2027 and 2028, however, everything is up in the air. Obviously, the number one priority is to be fast, and I know that I can be fast at Ducati, but I have to figure out a lot of things and decide what’s best for me.
– Marc Marquez, Champion.
Negotiations with Ducati and Market Value Impact
Reporting from Motorsport.com confirms that Ducati and Marquez began talks over a contract extension prior to the Asian tour and before sealing the title in Japan. Both sides appear eager to continue working together, but Marquez’s elevated market value—comparable to his prime years with Honda—has made negotiations more complex for Ducati’s management.
Looking Ahead: The Likelihood of Staying with Ducati
Marquez put a number on his likelihood of remaining with Ducati for the next regulation cycle, asserting,
I would say eight [out of 10], but I’m only one part of it,
– Marc Marquez, Champion. He added,
“In 2025 and 2026, we are working to win, all the parties want to win, and that’s the most important thing for 2027 and 2028.”
The Spaniard also emphasized the need for personal reflection, stating,
Now I’m taking two weeks to think about my future, make the right decision, or what I think is best for me.
– Marc Marquez, Champion.
Maintaining Strong Ties with Previous Teams
Despite forging ahead with Ducati, Marquez highlighted his ongoing respect for previous affiliations, such as his rapport with former Honda teammate Joan Mir. He shared,
I have always tried to be close to all the teams I have been with, and finish in the best possible way. It’s easy when something is honest,
– Marc Marquez, Champion. He also expressed his happiness for his brother, remarking,
I’m [also] very happy with where Alex [Marquez] has taken the Gresini team.
– Marc Marquez, Champion.
What the Future Holds for Marquez, Ducati, and MotoGP
With major changes to MotoGP’s technical regulations on the horizon in 2027 and Marquez’s demonstrated resurgence on the Ducati, the immediate focus remains on maintaining his competitive edge and securing more victories. His deep relationships with teams past and present, including HRC, Gresini, and Ducati, reinforce his expert standing within the paddock. As contract discussions with Ducati continue, Marc Marquez’s future trajectory carries implications for the entire MotoGP field, with his moves closely watched by rivals and fans alike. The Marc Marquez Ducati future promises to remain a central storyline heading into the sport’s next era.
