The MotoGP Future is Set: Marquez's Ducati Journey Extended!
In a move that has thrilled fans and sparked debates, Marc Marquez has sealed a two-year contract extension with Ducati, solidifying his presence in MotoGP for the 2027 and 2028 campaigns. But here's where it gets intriguing: this deal, finalized during Ducati's team presentation, ensures Marquez remains a force to be reckoned with until at least the end of 2028.
A source close to the negotiations confirms that the agreement will likely be announced before the season kicks off on March 1st with the Thai Grand Prix. The official MotoGP season launch in Kuala Lumpur, scheduled for February 7-8, is the perfect stage for this revelation, especially after the conclusion of the first pre-season tests of 2026 at Sepang.
"When I find a team that makes me feel at home and fast, I want to stay," Marquez emphasized during the presentation. "Ducati is my first choice, but we're taking it one step at a time. Contracts are being signed earlier these days."
While the financial details remain undisclosed, Marquez's decision to opt for a two-year extension reflects his unwavering motivation to race and compete at the pinnacle of MotoGP. At 33, turning 35 by the end of the new contract, Marquez's passion for the sport remains unwavering.
Marquez's journey with Ducati began in 2024 when he left Honda after 11 seasons to join Gresini Racing, a satellite Ducati team. Last season, he stepped up to the Bologna marque's factory squad on a two-year contract that was set to expire this year. With the extension, Marquez will have spent five seasons with the Desmosedici, four of them as a factory rider.
During his time with Gresini, Marquez claimed three victories after a winless drought, and in his first season with the works team, he dominated with 11 wins, 15 podiums, and eight pole positions, not to mention 15 sprint race victories. However, his 2025 campaign ended on a bitter note after an accident in Indonesia, where he collided with Aprilia rival Marco Bezzecchi, forcing him to miss the final four rounds despite already securing the title.
With Marquez's future secured, Ducati now turns its focus to deciding his teammate for 2027. Francesco Bagnaia, Fabio Quartararo, and Pedro Acosta are all in the running for the coveted seat alongside Marquez. Acosta seems to have a slight edge, especially after comments made by Aprilia CEO Massimo Rivola last week: "Marc will stay at Ducati, and Pedro has already said he wants a Ducati at all costs, so that pairing is probably already done."
When asked about his own situation, Bagnaia remained calm, stating, "I'm relaxed about my renewal. I just want to start the season well and focus on that. There are many riders whose contracts are ending, and it's important to stay focused on the championship." As the most successful rider in Ducati's MotoGP history, with back-to-back titles in 2022 and 2023, Bagnaia's future is a topic of much speculation.
Autosport reached out to Ducati team manager Davide Tardozzi for his take on Rivola's comments. He replied, "I'm not going to answer or comment on them today. But I'm glad to see people talking about Ducati; it shows they're paying attention to what we're doing. That's good to know."
So, what do you think? Who should be Marquez's teammate for the 2027 season? Join the discussion in the comments and let us know your thoughts on this exciting MotoGP development!
