Marc Márquez will compete in MotoGP for the first time with Ducati. After four challenging years on various levels, he takes a new direction in his career, aiming to be competitive and fight at the top again. For now, the rider excludes himself from the title fight this year, but Paolo Ciabatti has different expectations.
The Ducati director was questioned by the newspaper Marca about the surge in interest in the manufacturer in Spain since Márquez was confirmed at Gresini. In response, the Italian said: ‘It’s normal. He’s an exceptional rider who has won six MotoGP World Championships and eight in his sporting career. He is one of the best in the history of our sport. Ducati has had a lot of success with its current riders. Except [Johann] Zarco, everyone stays with Ducati in the 2024 season, and he is another rider that I am sure will be super competitive, and I think he will also be fighting for the Championship’.
Although aware that Márquez is setting low expectations for 2024, Ciabatti anticipates that #93 will contend for the title: ‘Perhaps Marc is moderating expectations a bit, but I think he will adapt very well to Ducati. Riders with different styles have been able to reach the podium and win races. Márquez will be one of the riders fighting for the Championship’.