Marquez admits he cannot launch his own MotoGP team while still riding, but may follow Rossi’s path
Marc Marquez has admitted that following in Valentino Rossi’s footsteps by launching his own MotoGP team is not possible while he is still racing, but it’s something he could look to do after retirement.
Rossi took that step in 2022, debuting the VR46 Racing Team in the premier class as a Ducati satellite squad. They entered the grid the year after Rossi hung up his leathers, fielding Luca Marini and Marco Bezzecchi.
While 2022 marked their MotoGP arrival, VR46 had been around for a while. The team began in Moto3 back in 2014 before expanding into Moto2 three years later. However, they pulled out of both categories by 2022 to focus solely on their top-tier entry.
Marc Marquez won’t think about running a MotoGP team until after he’s done racing
Marquez isn’t planning to follow Rossi’s path just yet. He says his entire focus is still on racing, leaving little room to think about managing a team while competing. However, he hasn’t ruled out the possibility once his riding days are over.
The idea of when Marquez might retire has come up again following the shoulder injury that has impacted his start to the 2026 season. Although he underwent surgery on his right collarbone last October, he is still not back to full fitness.
Marquez told Motorsport-Magazin: At the moment, no. No, because I’m simply fully focused on riding. As long as you’re a rider, your whole life revolves around riding the motorcycle. That’s my philosophy.
“But in the future? Who knows. In a few years, I’ll have ended my career sooner or later. Then I’ll decide whether I do it. I know that MotoGP and motorcycling are part of my life, and will continue to be.”
Speculation grows over potential Marc Marquez retirement in 2026
Marquez has made it clear in the past that his decision to retire will come down to his performances, indicating that he’ll step away when he’s no longer able to challenge for podiums. For now, though, the seven-time MotoGP champion remains focused on fighting at the front.
But with his shoulder still not fully healed and a full recovery expected to take a few more months, there’s been growing talk about whether this could be the year he steps away. Marquez’s contract with Ducati runs out at the end of 2026, and he’s asked them to hold off on any extension talks for now.
Reports were suggesting Marquez had agreed to a new two-year deal with Ducati to lead them into the 850cc era. However, ongoing issues with his shoulder have led him to put those discussions on pause until he feels closer to full fitness.
Fans are increasingly worried about Marquez’s future in the sport, especially given how much his injury has impacted him. Admitting that he isn’t back to peak condition yet, Marquez revealed that he chose Ducati’s 2024 aero package for 2026 because it demands less physical effort from him.
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