Marc Marquez and Ducati are reportedly set to finalize a two-year contract extension, keeping the star rider with the Italian manufacturer through the 2027 and 2028 MotoGP seasons. This significant development, learned by Autosport, signals a strong commitment from both sides and has been a topic of much anticipation within the motorsport community. The agreement was apparently confirmed during Ducati’s recent team presentation in the scenic Madonna di Campiglio ski resort.

The extension means the reigning world champion will continue to race in Ducati red, a partnership that has seen considerable success, until at least the conclusion of the 2028 campaign. Sources close to the negotiations indicate that the official announcement is expected to precede the official start of the MotoGP season. This timing aims to build anticipation and provide a clear focus for fans ahead of the season opener.

Featured snippet paragraph: The primary reason for Marc Marquez extending his contract with Ducati for two years is his desire to remain with a team where he feels comfortable and competitive, allowing him to continue racing at the highest level and contend for championships.

Marquez himself has emphasized his career philosophy, stating that when he finds a comfortable and fast environment, he prefers to stay. His initial intention was to remain with Ducati, acknowledging the need to approach contract negotiations methodically. The early finalization of contracts in modern racing is a trend he has observed.

While the specific financial details of this new agreement have not been publicly disclosed, it’s understood that the 93 rider has opted for a two-year term. This decision reflects his sustained motivation and ambition to compete at the pinnacle of motorcycle racing. At 33 years old, this contract would see him race until he is 35.

This move follows Marquez’s departure from Honda after an extensive 11-season tenure. His transition to Gresini Racing, a satellite Ducati team, in 2024 marked a significant shift. His subsequent promotion to the factory Ducati squad last season was on a two-year deal that concludes this year, making this new extension a crucial step in his career trajectory.

Over his five seasons aboard the Desmosedici, including four as a factory rider, Marquez has achieved remarkable results. His time with Gresini yielded three victories, revitalizing his career after two winless years. His first year with the factory team was exceptionally strong, marked by 11 wins, 15 podiums, and eight pole positions, alongside numerous sprint race victories.

Despite a challenging end to his 2025 campaign, which was unfortunately cut short by an accident in Indonesia that caused him to miss the final four rounds, Marquez had already secured the title. This unfortunate incident did not deter his commitment to continuing his successful partnership with Ducati.

With Marquez’s future now secured, Ducati’s management faces the important task of selecting his teammate for the 2027 season. Several high-profile riders, including Francesco Bagnaia, Fabio Quartararo, and Pedro Acosta, are reportedly in contention for the coveted seat alongside Marquez.

Pedro Acosta is considered by many to have a slight edge for the second factory seat. This speculation is fueled by recent comments from Aprilia CEO Massimo Rivola, who suggested that Marquez staying at Ducati and Acosta’s strong desire for a Ducati machine might have already sealed their pairing.

Regarding his own contract situation, Francesco Bagnaia expressed a calm outlook. He stated his priority is to start the upcoming season strongly and concentrate on the championship, acknowledging the many riders whose contracts are nearing expiration and the importance of maintaining focus.

When questioned about Rivola’s remarks, Ducati team manager Davide Tardozzi opted not to comment directly, stating that Monday was not the appropriate day for such discussions. However, he acknowledged the positive attention Ducati is receiving, indicating that their current performance and strategy are being closely watched by competitors.

The extension of Marc Marquez’s contract with Ducati represents a significant moment in MotoGP, solidifying one of the sport’s most compelling rider-manufacturer pairings for the coming years and setting the stage for further intense competition and strategic team decisions.

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