Ducati general manager Gigi Dall’Igna has expressed a new understanding of why the brand took so long to secure a MotoGP world title following Marc Marquez’s 2025 victory. Marquez clinched his seventh MotoGP crown after finishing second at the Japanese Grand Prix, marking his first championship in six years and his inaugural title with Ducati.
Recovering from a severe arm injury that stalled his career five years earlier, Marquez left Honda a year ahead of schedule in 2023 to join Gresini and ride Ducati machinery, rebuilding his confidence before earning a factory team spot this season. Alongside capturing the championship, he has dominated with 11 grand prix wins and 14 sprint victories, significantly contributing to Ducati’s constructors’ championship success.
Gigi Dall’Igna Reflects on Ducati’s Journey to Victory
Once an opponent of Ducati during his time at Honda, especially with Andrea Dovizioso leading the charge for the Italian brand, Dall’Igna revealed his admiration for Marquez’s impact on Ducati’s fortunes. He said,
“I cannot imagine a day like this,”
emphasizing the significance of the world championship combined with a first and second place finish in the race, with Pecco Bagnaia also delivering an outstanding performance throughout the weekend and race.
“So, it’s a perfect day and I’m really, really happy.”
Dall’Igna reflected on recruiting Marquez, stating,
“When I signed Marc, I’m pretty sure this was the best thing for Ducati, but I could not imagine something like that.”
He praised Marquez’s season dominance and work ethic, describing him as fast, clear in his feedback, and calm during challenges.
“Even in the difficulties, he is calm and tries to solve the problems. So, it’s really nice to work with him.”
On the challenges Ducati faced to secure their first championship with Marquez, Dall’Igna admitted,
“After this year, I understand very well why we took such a long time to win the first championship because Marc is unbelievable when he’s on the track with the bike.”
Emphasizing Marquez’s competitive nature, he said,
“It’s really difficult to fight with him. He wants to win. Easy. He wants to win.”
Recognizing Marquez’s Remarkable Comeback and Impact
Dall’Igna highlighted how few athletes in any sport have achieved what Marquez has in returning to the top level after such a critical injury. Discussing the racer’s difficult journey back, he stated,
“He managed a fantastic path to recover from his problems.”
He acknowledged the tough choices Marquez made to overcome setbacks and noted,
“At the end he’s arrived at the top again.”
He further added,
“So, it’s fantastic. I’m sure that very few athletes in the world did something like Marc did to recover from his injuries.”
This reflection underscores Marquez’s resilience and highlights his role in revitalizing Ducati’s competitive edge.
Marc Marquez Ducati Triumph not only marks a significant milestone for the rider and the brand, but it also signals Ducati’s strengthened position in the sport moving forward. As Marquez continues to perform at the highest level, Ducati’s outlook for future MotoGP seasons appears more promising than ever, driven by the rider’s determination and the team’s renewed synergy.
