MotoGP: Marc Marquez 2025 Ducati Signing Questioned - 'Haven't Understood The Decision'

Saajan Jogia | Aug 5, 2024

Apr 13, 2024; Austin, TX, USA; Marc Marquez (93) of Spain and Gresini Racing MotoGP waves to the fans after the Americas Grand Prix sprint race at Circuit of The Americas. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports / Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Ducati's signing of Marc Marquez has been questioned lately, given the fact that the Bologna-based outfit has let go of two strong riders currently in contention for the championship - Jorge Martin and Enea Bastianini, whom Marquez replaces.

After being turned down by Ducati, Martin has agreed to switch to Aprilia, while Bastianini, following just two seasons with the factory Ducati squad, will join Tech3 KTM. While it is obvious that the dominant force in MotoGP, Ducati, would sign one of the sport's finest riders in history like Marquez, Motorsport.com asks whether the decision was the right one.

For Marquez, this represents a significant comeback to the sport following a challenging recovery from injuries that had severely impacted his form. Ducati's decision to part ways with Martin now seems questionable, especially with only a few months left in the season. Bastianini's impressive double victory at the British GP weekend further intensifies the scrutiny, leading many to question if Ducati acted prematurely in opting for Marquez.

As the title race intensifies, Ducati can no longer be assured of having the defending champion in 2025, since both Martin and Bastianini have now entered the title contention, posing a significant challenge to the reigning champion, Francesco Bagnaia.

Bastianini believes he hasn't been given a fair chance to showcase his full potential, particularly after missing the first five rounds of the previous season due to injury, along with three additional races. This limited track time has hindered his ability to demonstrate his true capabilities. When asked if Ducati made a mistake by dropping him for 2025, he said:

"I haven't understood the decision by Ducati because they have lost riders like me and Jorge, but I respect the decision.

"Last year, I missed so many races. I won in Malaysia but in my physical condition it wasn't good. This year it is better from when I started with the 24 bike and my results are getting better race by race. I have tried to resolve some problems because in the first half of the championship I was not confident and now I am confident.

"I have the opportunity to do a great championship this year, for the next one, let's see. I will not be with Ducati but it is like this."

Bastianini's strong performance has reduced his deficit to Martin to just 49 points, with Martin regaining the lead in the standings following his second-place finish. This narrowing gap has intensified the championship battle, making the remaining races even more critical and thrilling.

For Ducati and Marquez, the partnership seems more than just a competitive advantage. While Marquez mostly remains among the top five contenders for podiums, his legacy and impact on MotoGP history make the six-time world champion a valuable asset.