Marc Marquez to Ducati: A Divisive Move Amid Rossi Rivalry, Reveals CEO

Marc Marquez labeled "contentious"; Ducati's chief suggests clashes with Valentino Rossi

"His skill isn't up for debate, yet many hold distinct views on his career narrative"

Ducati's chief executive has acknowledged that acquiring Marc Marquez is a polarizing move, referencing his contentious relationship with Valentino Rossi.

Next season, Marquez is set to join Pecco Bagnaia as a leading rider for the Italian manufacturer Ducati's premier MotoGP team.

Naturally, he's well-known for his rivalry with Italy's beloved Rossi.

"Ducati's CEO, Claudio Domenicali, expressed to Sky Italia that Marquez's decision has sparked controversy."

"In Italy, significantly more so than in other parts of the globe, his unique riding style and historical events have greatly influenced his reputation."

"From what I've gathered, his skills are undisputed, yet there are quite a few individuals who hold distinct views regarding his background."

The narrative encompasses Rossi's infamous claim that Marquez played a role in helping Jorge Lorenzo secure the championship title in 2015.

However, Ducati finds it impossible to overlook Marquez's remarkable performance this season with Gresini, despite riding last year's model.

His declaration of refusing to switch to a different Ducati satellite squad, despite being offered factory-grade bikes, influenced the company's choice regarding their official roster for 2025 to his advantage.

Jorge Martin didn't secure his spot and has instead inked a deal with Aprilia.

"Domenicali mentioned, "Making this choice was extremely hard for us because Martin holds a special place in our hearts."

Ultimately, the decision came down to either Marc or Jorge, who has been a longstanding and robust member of our team.

"Only the future can reveal if this choice was correct."

Development of 2027 bikes a crucial element

Opting for Marquez, who will become the second oldest rider in MotoGP the following year, has led to claims that Ducati has abandoned its strategy of nurturing homegrown talent like Bagnaia.

Martin moved to Aprilia, while Enea Bastianini switched to KTM, and the Pramac squad made their way to Yamaha following Marquez's ascent to the premier team.

Domenicali refutes claims that Ducati has lost its forward-looking vision.

"For a while now, we've made it our priority to concentrate on nurturing young talents like Pecco," he mentioned.

"As they evolve into skilled professionals and global victors, newcomers face challenges in securing their positions, making it unavoidable that we couldn't retain everyone."

"This outcome stems from the decision to prioritize the development of the new model, slated for release in 2027."

"It's a topic that goes undiscussed, yet it's crucial to execute it proficiently."

"It's crucial to consider our current actions in this splendid tournament, not just for the immediate future but also for the years to come."

"It's come to my attention that we've moved away from the strategy focusing on the youth."

"It appears the evidence contradicts this – Fermin Aldeguer, who is seen as a rising talent, will continue to be part of our team in the coming year."

"Thus, we have no plans to alter our current approach; instead, we aim to strengthen it."

Aldeguer is poised to be the sole newcomer participating in next year's MotoGP season.

He is set to become a part of either VR46 or Gresini following his agreement with Ducati.

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