Jorge Martín made it clear: after being overlooked for a place in Ducati’s factory team in 2023 and 2024, he intended to be in an official team next year – even if it meant giving up the dream of joining Borgo Panigale. And so he did, heading to Aprilia when it became evident that Ducati’s choice would be Marc Márquez.
In 2022, Ducati faced a choice between two riders – Martín (Prima Pramac) and Enea Bastianini, who were of the same age and both in their second seasons in the premier class, in satellite teams and therefore on equal terms.
However, the Spaniard came from a 2021 season in which he suffered a severe injury in the third round, recovering to show impressive results – including a victory. This was something he couldn’t repeat in 2022, despite greater consistency and reaching the podium three times.
At the same time, Bastianini was having the best season of his career so far: four victories and two second places, earning him third place in the championship. The choice seemed obvious in favor of the Italian.
In 2023, however, the scenario was very different. Martín fought for the title and only lost to Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati) in the last race. Bastianini, on the other hand, had a year marked by injuries that kept him out for a long time. His progress and adaptation to Ducati’s factory team were therefore hindered, and the constructor wanted to give him another opportunity.
That opportunity didn’t earn him continuity beyond 2024… but the chosen one ended up being Marc Márquez, not Martín. Currently, #89 is leading the championship with two victories and has only missed the podium in two main races. Additionally, he won three Sprint races.
At 26 years old, Martín has greater future potential than Márquez, who is approaching 32. It’s clear that Martín represents the future, while Márquez might not be in MotoGP for much longer. One might think: what sense does it make to pass up a future talent to a rival, choosing a rider with fewer long-term prospects?
Márquez is a safe choice from a sporting perspective, but he is also essential from a marketing and image standpoint. It is understandable why Ducati chose him. In a way, Ducati has also secured its future.
Fermín Aldeguer signed a contract for two seasons (2025 and 2026) with an option for two more. This timing is ideal for Márquez to complete two seasons and potentially end his career by beating Valentino Rossi in the number of titles. Or Bagnaia might seek a different professional challenge. At that point, in 2027, Aldeguer could start the new regulatory cycle as Ducati’s great future hope.
There are no decisions with only pros or cons. Teams always aim to make the best decision considering all aspects, from sports to financial, marketing, and image, both for the short and long term. Some decisions may prove less wise over time; others may turn out to be ideal. What will be the case with Ducati’s choice of Márquez over Martín? We will find out in the coming seasons.