Paolo Ciabatti Reveals Marc Marquez's Astonishing Ducati Salary
Categories: MotoGP
Published: 25th October 2023
Marc Marquez gives up a lot of money for his 2024 move to Gresini Racing. Paolo Ciabatti reveals the Spaniard’s Ducati salary.
In recent weeks, Ducati’s Sporting Director, Paolo Ciabatti, consistently asserted the Italian’s decision not to engage in negotiations involving Marc Marquez, Honda and the Gresini Racing team.
After already finalizing their roster with Francesco Bagnaia and Enea Bastianini, along with Jorge Martin and Franco Morbidelli in the Pramac team, there was no intent or room for the factory Ducati team to sign another rider.
Ciabatti clarified that Gresini and VR46 themselves were responsible for selecting their riders, and Ducati had no need to approve or intervene in their choices.
Concerning the quite surprising Gresini-Marquez deal, he explained that the team had informed Ducati once negotiations were close to being complete, recognizing it as a unique opportunity.
“It wouldn’t have been right for us to ask them to abandon the deal. I was convinced that Honda wouldn’t let go of Marc,” admitted Ciabatti talking to Moto.it.
He added, “As far as I understand, he practically rides for no money,” indicating that financial factors did not influence Marquez’s decision.
Marquez himself highlighted his desire to rediscover the joy of motorcycle riding and compete with confidence.
Ciabatti suggested Marquez chose Gresini after discussions with his brother about the previous year’s model’s strengths.
He expressed pride that Marquez regarded Ducati as the best motorcycle for regaining competitiveness.
