Marc Marquez opens up on Ducati switch and rivalry with Pecco Bagnaia

Marquez discusses his adaptation to Ducati, his rivalry with Bagnaia, and his evolved approach to racing.

Francesco Bagnaia and Marc Marquez speak to fans during the MotoGP 2025 Season Launch at the MotoGP 2025 Unveiling Event before the Thailand MotoGP Test on February 9, 2025, in Bangkok, Thailand. Photo by Mirco Lazzari/Getty Images

By Hayu Andini and Adila Ghina

Marc Marquez recently made an appearance on El Hormiguero, where he reflected on his illustrious career, his recent transition to Ducati, and the evolving dynamics within the team. The 32-year-old from Cervera shared his thoughts on adapting to his new machine, his departure from Honda, and his relationship with his new teammate, Pecco Bagnaia.

Marquez expressed optimism about his move to Ducati, highlighting the welcoming atmosphere within the team. "The same people are still there, the same team managers and the same technicians. And they told me: ‘You stole two world championships from us,’" he recalled, laughing while speaking in Italian. His remark was a nod to his intense battles with Andrea Dovizioso during the 2017 and 2018 seasons, where he narrowly clinched victories over Ducati. Despite past rivalries, Marquez emphasized that he has been received with open arms at his new team.

After more than a decade at the pinnacle of motorcycle racing, Marquez acknowledged that his approach has evolved. "At 32, you think more. With experience, you learn that you don't have to take maximum risks on every lap or in every practice session. There are key moments in a race—five or six laps that are crucial—and then you have to take risks if you want to win, but not for 25 laps."

Marquez’s career has been defined by his fearless riding style, which has brought him immense success but also numerous injuries. "If I do something, I take the risk. I have won a lot, but I have also paid for it with many injuries." His aggressive racing mentality has been a double-edged sword, delivering six MotoGP world championships but also sidelining him with multiple fractures and surgeries.

Relationship with Pecco Bagnaia

One of the most talked-about aspects of Marquez’s move to Ducati is his coexistence with Pecco Bagnaia, a two-time MotoGP world champion. Many fans and analysts have speculated whether their competitive spirits might lead to tension within the team. Marquez, however, downplayed any potential conflicts, citing their maturity as a key factor.

"If you put two roosters in the same pen at 20 or 25 years old, it goes badly, it will explode. But Pecco is 27, I am 32, and he is a gentleman, he is calm." Despite this, Marquez acknowledged that their rivalry on the track will be fierce. "Pecco is a gentleman, but on the track, he is the greatest warrior. If he has to put his bike on you, he will put it on you."

So far, the preseason has allowed both riders to collaborate on refining Ducati’s performance. "We have talked a lot about having the best possible bike, but we both know that from the first to the last race, each will look out for their own interests." Marquez emphasized the importance of teamwork in the early stages but made it clear that personal ambitions will take precedence as the season progresses. "I have learned that unity is strength, and we will try to work together so that the best on the track wins. There will be rivalry on the track, but it must be healthy."

With the 2025 MotoGP season fast approaching, all eyes will be on Ducati’s garage to see how the dynamic between Marquez and Bagnaia unfolds. Both riders are determined to fight for the championship, but their ability to balance teamwork and competition will be crucial in their quest for MotoGP glory.

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