Marc Marquez, the reigning MotoGP world champion, revealed on Thursday that a persistent shoulder injury has compelled him to modify his riding style as he gears up for the upcoming season opener in Buriram, Thailand. The Spanish rider, who races for Ducati, is aiming to secure a record-tying eighth world championship this year after a dominant performance last season.
Last year, Marquez showcased his exceptional talent by clinching the championship with five races still remaining, demonstrating his clear superiority over the competition. However, his campaign was abruptly interrupted when a shoulder injury forced him to sit out the final four races of the season. The 33-year-old admitted that the injury was particularly challenging and continues to impact his physical condition, necessitating adjustments not only in his riding approach but also in the technical setup of his motorcycle.
“The injury has not been easy to manage,” Marquez explained. “I still feel its effects, which means I cannot ride the bike exactly as I did last year. This has led me to step back a bit in terms of aerodynamics and make changes to the bike’s setup to accommodate my current physical state.” He further elaborated that the aerodynamic package for the 2025 season is somewhat heavier and demands more from the rider physically, which has influenced his decision to adapt his style accordingly.
Despite these challenges, Marquez remains optimistic about his new approach. “The revised setup is working well, but in a different way than before,” he said. “One of my strengths has always been my ability to adapt to what I have and what I need. I am determined to adjust my riding style once again to this new reality until I regain full fitness.” This adaptability has been a hallmark of Marquez’s career, especially as he has battled injuries in the past.
Marquez’s comeback story is nothing short of remarkable. After suffering a series of setbacks that nearly ended his racing career, he returned to top form last season by winning his first championship since 2019. Throughout the year, he was in commanding shape, securing 25 victories including sprint races, which underscored his resilience and skill. Looking ahead, he remains committed to his goal of defending the title despite the ongoing physical hurdles.
“We will see how the situation evolves and how I can manage it,” Marquez stated confidently. “But the objective remains clear: if you are wearing the red Ducati colors, the mission is always to fight for the championship.” His determination signals that he is not willing to let the injury define his season.
Meanwhile, Marquez’s closest competitor last year was none other than his younger brother, Alex Marquez, who rides for the Gresini team. Alex has started the new season on a strong note, posting the fastest lap times during the first pre-season test held in Malaysia. However, he cautioned against reading too much into early results, emphasizing that true form will only become apparent after several races.
“It’s not just about this race weekend,” Alex commented. “We’ll have a better understanding of where we stand and what we can realistically aim for after three or four races.” His pragmatic approach highlights the competitive nature of the field and the unpredictability of the season ahead.
Adding to the excitement, Aprilia’s Marco Bezzecchi impressed during the second pre-season test by setting a new track record in Buriram. This development signals that the upcoming season will be fiercely contested, with multiple riders capable of challenging for top honors.
As the MotoGP circus prepares to kick off in Thailand, all eyes will be on Marquez to see how effectively he can navigate the challenges posed by his injury while maintaining his championship-winning form. The season promises thrilling racing action as the riders battle not only each other but also the physical demands of the sport.
