The MotoGP community is abuzz with anticipation as the 2024 season approaches, especially with the looming possibility of Marc Marquez joining the Ducati camp. While the official announcement regarding Marquez’s future destination for 2024 is still pending, it’s clear that he will no longer be an official Honda rider. Indications suggest that he is set to join the satellite Gresini team, where he will ride a Ducati. This move will make him a brand companion to riders like Pecco Bagnaia, Jorge Martin, Marco Bezzecchi, Luca Marini, Enea Bastianini, his brother and teammate Alex Marquez, and the newcomer Franco Morbidelli.
The current World Champion, Pecco Bagnaia, whose primary concern is to fend off Jorge Martin, who is just three points behind in the championship standings, commented on the high probability of having Marquez as a teammate. Bagnaia expressed genuine excitement at the prospect. Whether it’s to alleviate the pressure or sheer sincerity, Bagnaia always seems to relish competition. He has previously expressed his enthusiasm for battling it out on the track, especially with Jorge Martin, who is currently in top form.
Regarding Marquez, Bagnaia stated, “Seeing data from someone like Marc Marquez will serve as encouragement and help.” He added, “We can have a good fight. If Marc joins Ducati, he will undoubtedly be ultra-fast from the start. Having a rival like him is always great, so I’m happy about it. He’s an eight-time world champion. So, seeing data from someone of his caliber will be encouraging and helpful. We’ll then see what he’s capable of.”
Gigi Dall’Igna, the head honcho at Ducati, expects a “disruption of balance” within the team, which will be his responsibility to manage. As for Bagnaia, he looks forward to the heightened competition that Marquez’s arrival might bring. The 2024 MotoGP season is already shaping up to be one of the most intriguing in recent memory.