Marc Marquez Hints at Ducati Team Hierarchy: Who’s Calling the Shots?
Marc Marquez shares insights on Ducati’s team dynamics after the Barcelona test. Could a clear number one rider emerge for the 2025 MotoGP season?
Marc Marquez has confirmed he will no longer carry Red Bull sponsorship in 2025 as he transitions to Ducati’s factory MotoGP squad. Speaking at the season-ending “Sport & Talk aus dem Hangar 7” gala in Salzburg, Austria, the eight-time world champion offered a glimpse into his future with Ducati.
The Spaniard praised his 2024 season with Gresini Racing as a critical step in his journey back to form. “The relationship with the Gresini team was great from the start,” he said.
“Throughout the season, we faced many challenges, including some mechanical issues – mistakes happen. But when you return to the box after a problem and your team welcomes you warmly, it makes all the difference.”
Marquez’s departure from Red Bull marks the end of an era, as the Spaniard has been a Red Bull athlete throughout his MotoGP career. However, Ducati’s factory partnership with Monster Energy left no room for Red Bull’s continued sponsorship.
“This is my last appearance as a Red Bull athlete,” he said. “Ducati has another sponsor, so we can’t continue.” A possible future association with Monster Energy remains unclear. “Out of respect for Red Bull”, the Spaniard will not bring a new personal sponsor into the mix. “I want to thank the Red Bull family, and I hope we remain friends.”
Looking ahead to his new role at Ducati, Marquez underlined the challenges he anticipates. “I’m joining the world champion team. I already feel the pressure, but I wanted it. I said I needed to leave my comfort zone at Honda. Now I’ve taken the chance.”
“At Honda, I was number one. New riders always came in trying to match me. People used to say I was on the best bike. I always said, if anyone wanted to ride the Honda, they could try it. Would I want myself as a teammate? Of course not!” he joked.
“At the same time, you want a strong teammate, but not another Marc Marquez. This year, having my brother in the same team was a bit strange. On the track, though, he’s just another competitor, and that rivalry is essential.”
“Now, I’m in a new team where Pecco [Bagnaia] has been incredibly successful in recent years. I aim to learn from Pecco and, of course, to win. We’ll be on the same bike. If I don’t win, Pecco has to win, and if he doesn’t, I’ll have to try to win. I feel great physically. I can’t wait for the season to start.”
