Marc Marquez, the eight-time MotoGP World Champion, has embarked on a new chapter in his illustrious career. After six premier class titles with Repsol Honda, he made a bold move to Gresini Racing in 2024.
Now, the news is official: Marc Marquez will ride for the Ducati Lenovo Team in 2025 alongside back-to-back MotoGP World Champion Francesco Bagnaia. But can he reclaim his winning form with the Italian powerhouse?
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Ducati’s Legacy
Before Marquez, several legends have donned the iconic red livery of the Ducati. Let’s take a look at three of them:
1. Casey Stoner
Stoner, an Australian sensation, joined Ducati in 2007. His debut season was nothing short of spectacular, securing 10 wins and 14 podiums. He clinched the 2007 MotoGP title, becoming the first rider to do so on non-Japanese machinery since 1974. Although a second title eluded him, Stoner left an indelible mark on Ducati’s history with 23 wins before switching to Honda.
2. Valentino Rossi
Rossi’s arrival at Ducati in 2011 was highly anticipated. However, the match didn’t live up to expectations. Struggling to tame the Desmosedici, Rossi managed only three podiums and no wins during his tenure. His return to Yamaha signaled the end of a challenging chapter for both rider and team.
3. Jorge Lorenzo
In 2016, five-time World Champion Lorenzo followed Rossi’s footsteps, moving from Yamaha to Ducati. Despite initial difficulties, Lorenzo secured three wins and 12 podiums during his Ducati stint. His switch to Honda in 2019 marked another significant chapter in his career.
Marc Marquez’s Challenge
Marc Marquez faces a unique challenge. After four injury-ridden years at Honda, he seeks redemption with Ducati. His impressive debut on the Ducati GP23 hints at a promising future. However, repeating such performances won’t be easy. Marquez acknowledges the fierce competition from riders like Martin, Bagnaia, and Vinales. The key lies in Ducati’s support and Marquez’s ability to adapt to the Desmosedici’s nuances.
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