Marc Márquez Shares Confidence Ahead of Italian GP – Eyes Matching Ducati Rivals and Welcomes Future with Toprak
Following a productive outing at Aragón, Marc Márquez is heading into the Italian GP at Mugello in strong form. Confident after successful test sessions, he sees the upcoming weekend as a key opportunity—especially at Ducati’s home circuit.
On Ducati Rivals and Performance Expectations
“After Aragón, we’re going into Mugello in a good place. The tests went well, and I aim to maintain that same level of performance. This is Ducati’s home GP, and my teammate Pecco has multiple wins here. I expect Pecco to be fast, and Alex too. If I can match their speed, that in itself would be great news. Last year, our bike specs were slightly different, so comparison was difficult. But this year, I can make more direct comparisons, and Alex’s data will be especially useful.”
On Toprak Razgatlıoğlu’s Arrival in MotoGP
“I’m looking forward to Toprak joining us next year. It’s exciting to welcome another champion to MotoGP. He has a unique riding style—he always looks like he’s riding on just the front wheel in Superbikes. It’s great to see a new rider from a different country joining us.”
“For Toprak, the biggest challenge will be adapting from Pirelli to Michelin. I’ve tried Pirelli in other categories, and the riding style is completely different—the feeling is different. It’s not about one being better or worse, just a different approach to corners. That’s the biggest difference.”
Championship Focus and Season Strategy
“Right now, Alex is more of a threat than Pecco on this track. He’s a direct rival in the championship, along with Pecco and Morbidelli. It’s a long season, and anything can happen—injuries, unexpected issues. For me, what matters is staying close to my rivals at tracks where I usually struggle, and then going on the attack at circuits where I’m stronger—like Aragón.”
Improving Weekend Consistency
“Saturday races are very important. Not just the sprints, but practice and qualifying too. The goal isn’t necessarily pole, but to be on the first two rows. The most important day is Sunday. I’ve often lost points there, so that’s an area I want to improve. So far, we’ve managed Saturdays well with the soft tire.”
On KTM and Machine Balance
"KTM’s engine is strong, but it’s all about overall balance. The 2025 engine we tested in pre-season was very powerful, but we lost out in other areas. KTM is also fast on the straights, but they may be lacking elsewhere. In the end, balance is key—and that’s more up to the engineers than the riders."
Reflecting on Recovery and Career Outlook
"I do think I’m raising my level by battling with Alex. Winning a ninth title might come, but the biggest challenge in my career has already been achieved—coming back from the worst time in my life. Three years ago at Mugello, I announced I was going to the U.S. for osteotomy surgery on my arm."
"Every rider has their career, injuries, and riding style. I’m proud to have overcome that challenge, and I’m enjoying where I am now. Of course, there’s pressure to win the championship as a Ducati rider, but when it happens isn’t what matters most. What matters is striving toward that goal."