The 2026 MotoGP season is shaping up to be a classic duel, and a key figure from the paddock has weighed in on the title fight. VR46 team manager Pablo Nieto has thrown his support behind reigning world champion Marc Marquez, backing the Ducati star to hunt down current points leader Marco Bezzecchi as the season progresses.

Despite Marquez clinching the crown last year, his title defense has faced early turbulence. Aprilia's Bezzecchi has seized the initiative, building a formidable 36-point lead with a dominant start to the campaign. Marquez's challenge has been complicated by a dislocated finger sustained in a crash during Free Practice 1 at the Circuit of the Americas, an injury that has visibly impacted his form and fitness in subsequent races.

Yet, Nieto remains unwavering in his belief. In a recent interview, the VR46 boss emphasized Marquez's champion pedigree, stating, "Marc is Marc. Obviously, I think he’s still the favourite... He’s the one who really made the difference last year... he’s the rider to beat." This endorsement highlights the respect Marquez commands, even when trailing.

While Bezzecchi's form on the Aprilia has been spectacular, the long MotoGP season is a marathon, not a sprint. Marquez has already shown flashes of his brilliance with three podiums in the early rounds, proving he can still perform at the highest level. The coming races will test both riders' resilience, strategy, and sheer speed, setting the stage for a potentially epic comeback story. For fans and riders alike, it's a thrilling reminder that in MotoGP, the race is never over until the final checkered flag falls.