Marc Marquez, the reigning MotoGP champion, has expressed his belief that Francesco Bagnaia needs to return to top form for Ducati’s continued success in the upcoming season. The Spaniard emphasized the importance of having a fully recovered and competitive Bagnaia on the team as they face growing competition from rivals like Aprilia and KTM.
Key Takeaways
- Marc Marquez insists Ducati needs Pecco Bagnaia back at his best in 2026 MotoGP.
- Bagnaia’s sensitivity to bike changes is seen as an asset for future development.
- Marquez highlights the progress of rivals like Aprilia and KTM, but remains confident in Ducati.
In a recent interview with MotoGP.com, Marquez praised Bagnaia’s performance at the Japanese Grand Prix, where he secured 37 points despite non-scoring weekends before and after. Marquez believes that Bagnaia’s unique sensitivity to bike adjustments could play a crucial role in Ducati’s future advancements.
Marquez also acknowledged the strides made by other teams this year. Aprilia clinched three of the last four races, Pedro Acosta from KTM became a regular podium contender, and Honda showed significant improvement towards the season’s end. Despite these challenges, Marquez remains steadfast in his belief that Ducati is still at the top.
“We need Pecco back on his level,” said Marquez. “He’s super-sensitive on the bike, which will help a lot for future development.” The champion also noted that December and January are ideal times for Bagnaia to reset and prepare for the new season’s test in Malaysia.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Marquez think about Ducati’s future?
Marc Marquez is confident that despite challenges from other teams, Ducati remains the best team and has the best bike for him.
Why is Bagnaia’s sensitivity to changes important?
Bagnaia’s ability to notice subtle differences in performance can help identify areas of improvement for Ducati’s development.
Marc Marquez’s support for Pecco Bagnaia underscores the importance of teamwork and mutual respect within racing. As MotoGP continues to evolve, these relationships will be key to maintaining competitive edge and pushing boundaries.
