In a potentially groundbreaking move for the MotoGP world, Marc Marquez might cross the proverbial Rubicon, transitioning from Honda to Gresini Ducati in 2024. Although Marquez had previously indicated that decisions regarding his future would be settled between the Indian Grand Prix and the upcoming Japanese Grand Prix, recent developments suggest a more extended timeline.
According to a well-informed Spanish media AS.com, an unprecedented contractual arrangement is being discussed. This unique plan, possibly the mysterious “Plan C” hinted at by the eight-time World Champion, involves Honda “loaning” Marquez to the satellite Ducati team, Gresini, for the final year of his contract, only to reclaim him in 2025. By then, Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) would have undergone a comprehensive reorganization, incorporating European engineers and moving away from the traditional Japanese working methods that seem outdated in the current MotoGP landscape. The goal would be to develop a more competitive RC213V.
This “loan” concept, familiar in sports like football, would address the sensitive issue of prematurely breaking a contract that runs through the end of 2024 for Marquez. However, it also implies that Marquez would spend a season gaining insights into Ducati’s operations, potentially sharing these findings with Honda upon his return. While Ducati has maintained that any negotiations are solely between its satellite team and Marquez, the loan’s implications could change the narrative, prompting Ducati’s main team in Borgo Panigale to take a closer look.
This weekend, during the Japanese Grand Prix, Marquez is expected to meet with Honda’s top brass, where more light might be shed on these speculations.