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Factory Ducati rider Marc Marquez has decisively played down the prospect of a future return to Honda in MotoGP, describing the idea as “more theory than practice.” This pivotal announcement shapes the ongoing narrative around Marc Marquez’s Ducati future, cementing expectations that the seven-time MotoGP champion is poised to extend his highly successful tenure with the Italian manufacturer. His comments underscore a strategic shift, prioritizing competitive machinery and a proven winning environment over sentimental ties to his former team, even as Honda makes significant strides in its recovery.
Despite ending his Honda deal a year early to join Gresini for the 2024 season, Marquez parted ways with the Japanese manufacturer on amicable terms. Initially, he left the door open to a possible reunion, but any return was always contingent on Honda’s recovery following its worst season in the modern MotoGP era in 2023. While Honda has indeed made incredible progress, scoring one victory and four podiums during the 2025 campaign and moving into Group C of the concessions system alongside Aprilia and KTM, Marquez’s own resurgence with Ducati has dramatically reduced the likelihood of him looking elsewhere.
Is Marc Marquez returning to Honda? The answer is highly unlikely in the foreseeable future, as Marquez’s priority is to remain with Ducati, where he has found the tools to contend for the world championship after years of struggling on uncompetitive Honda machinery. His current form and satisfaction with Ducati’s performance are key factors in this decision.
It is widely expected that the Spanish superstar will extend his stay with Ducati on a further two-year deal, which would effectively rule out a return to Honda until at least 2029, by which time he will be 36 years old. This decision reflects a calculated move to maximize his championship-winning potential during his prime racing years, a sentiment frequently echoed by top athletes in high-stakes sports.
When asked about the possibility of rejoining Honda in the future in November, particularly in light of the significant regulation changes slated for 2027, Marquez stated, “It’s more theory than practice. I’m not going to make any decisions while I’m injured or not on the bike. It’s an important decision, unless I’m absolutely sure about it.” This careful approach highlights the gravity of such career choices in the competitive world of MotoGP, where every advantage counts.
Marquez emphasized his current position, saying, “I’m in a good place right now, I’m back on top, and it’s time to make the right decisions and be selfish, thinking only of myself.” He also pointed out the uncertainty surrounding the 2027 regulations, noting, “In 2027, no one can guarantee you the best bike. When it’s tested, everything will be decided. You’ll have to trust your instincts. It will be a year in which everything is up for grabs. You have to manage it in the best way possible.” These remarks provide crucial insight into the strategic thinking behind a rider’s long-term career planning.
When the same question about a Honda return was put to him again at Ducati’s Campioni in Festa event in December, Marquez added, “It’s clear that we have the fastest bike for next year, and that’s the most important thing. For 2027 and 2028, however, everything is up in the air. Obviously, the number one priority is to be fast, and I know that I can be fast at Ducati, but I have to figure out a lot of things and decide what’s best for me.” This further clarifies the immediate and future considerations influencing his choices.
Autosport reported that Ducati and Marquez first began discussing a contract renewal before the start of the Asian tour, even prior to him sealing the title in Japan. While there is a clear willingness from both parties to reach a new agreement, Marquez’s market value has risen to levels comparable with his peak years at Honda, complicating negotiations for Ducati. This complex scenario highlights the intense competitive dynamics within the MotoGP rider market, where talent and performance dictate significant financial terms.
Marquez himself stated there is an “eight out of 10” chance that he will remain at Ducati for the start of the next regulation cycle in 2027. He elaborated, “I would say eight [out of 10], but I’m only one part of it. In 2025 and 2026, we are working to win, all the parties want to win, and that’s the most important thing for 2027 and 2028.” His focus remains squarely on winning championships, a goal he believes is most achievable with Ducati.
He concluded by highlighting the need for personal reflection: “I need to take these two weeks, first of all because I haven’t had time for myself. I had a physically and mentally stressful November and December because of all the commitments I had. Now I’m taking two weeks to think about my future, make the right decision, or what I think is best for me.” This personal downtime is crucial for an athlete facing such significant career choices, reinforcing his commitment to making the optimal decision for his Marc Marquez Ducati future.
Marquez also highlighted that he remains on good terms with his previous teams, mentioning how special it was for him to have former Honda team-mate Joan Mir alongside him on the podium when he clinched his ninth overall world title at Motegi. “I have always tried to be close to all the teams I have been with, and finish in the best possible way. It’s easy when something is honest,” he said. This professionalism ensures that while his racing future lies with Ducati, his legacy with Honda remains respectful and intact, a testament to his long and successful career with the Japanese manufacturer.
