Ducati keen to keep Marc Marquez around even after he retires
Ducati are reportedly interested in keeping their ties with MotoGP legend Marc Marquez even after his racing days are over.
Marquez made the switch to Ducati in 2024, initially riding for Gresini, following a long and storied career with Honda. By 2025, he had moved up to the factory team and joined Casey Stoner and Francesco Bagnaia as one of the team’s world champions.
This year, an injury has already forced him out of at least two races (France and Catalonia), making a title defence unlikely. However, Marquez’s influence stretches well beyond his results on the track.
Ducati hope to keep Marquez around as brand ambassador
Despite rumours suggesting otherwise, MARCA have reported that the Spaniard’s contract is identical to Pedro Acosta’s – a two-year deal lasting until the end of 2028.
Marquez had initially pushed for a one-plus-one agreement, but Ducati were looking for more certainty with riders like Fermin Aldeguer representing the brand’s future. The 19-year-old is set to join VR46 next year, further shaping their plans.
Even so, Marquez made sure his contract included exit clauses over concerns about his health. The exact details haven’t been made public, but Ducati have said they’ll respect whatever choice he makes.
While Marquez didn’t inform Ducati about the nerve issue that required another shoulder operation – on top of foot repairs following a crash in Le Mans Sprint – their working relationship is still ‘perfect’. In fact, Ducati see him taking on a ‘brand ambassador’ role once his racing days are done, similar to the position Casey Stoner held before him.
It’s possible Honda might offer Marquez something similar if they don’t bring him back as a rider. But Ducati are eager to take advantage of his strong commercial and media presence once he hangs up his helmet.
Why Red Bull won’t join Marquez at Ducati
There has been ‘much talk’ that Marquez’s longtime personal sponsor Red Bull could link up with Ducati next year, replacing Monster Energy.
However, MARCA say that Ducati’s deal with Monster runs until the end of 2027, precluding such an arrangement for the time being.
A report last month claimed Monster could split with Yamaha at the end of the season. If they wish to remain involved in MotoGP, then that will make their partnership with Ducati even more important.
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