Marc Marquez's return to MotoGP after surgery has sparked intense speculation, but Ducati is standing firm on their commitment to the eight-time world champion. Following a dramatic crash at the French Grand Prix in Le Mans, concerns are mounting over Marquez's future—yet the Italian manufacturer insists he remains under contract for the next two years, with whispers of an even longer deal.
The crash, a violent highside during the Sprint race, left Marquez with a fractured foot, compounding existing shoulder issues that required surgery. He underwent operations on his right shoulder and foot on Sunday, with the shoulder procedure already planned due to complications plaguing his season. The injury has forced him to miss the upcoming Barcelona round, adding to a growing list of setbacks.
Marquez, now in rehabilitation, remains confident in a swift recovery. But after years of battling serious injuries—including a career-threatening arm injury in 2020—the latest incident has reignited questions about whether this could be the crash that pushes him toward retirement when his current Ducati contract ends in 2026.
However, behind the scenes, Ducati's communications team has hinted at a longer commitment. Speaking on the Paddock Pass Podcast, journalist Neil Morrison revealed that when he asked a Ducati representative about concerns over Marquez's motivation, the response was telling. "He signed for two more years. He's committed to 2027 and 2028," they said, noting Marquez's attitude was one of determination: "Right, let's just come back from this and let's get to it."
While nothing is official, this quiet confirmation suggests Ducati sees Marquez as a cornerstone of their MotoGP project through 2028. For fans, it's a testament to the champion's resilience—and a sign that the partnership is built on more than just a contract.
