In MotoGP, careers often hinge on key turning points, and Alex Marquez’s journey is a clear example. In mid-2022, after three difficult seasons with Honda in the premier class, he was left without a ride for the following year. At the same time, Gresini Racing was close to signing Miguel Oliveira, but that deal fell through when Oliveira chose Aprilia RNF instead. That moment reshaped Alex Marquez’s career.
Joining Gresini proved to be the perfect reset. He found a supportive environment, regained confidence, and rediscovered results, even encouraging his brother Marc to take on the Gresini challenge in 2024. Now, as the reigning MotoGP vice-world champion, Alex Marquez stands on the brink of another defining moment as attention turns toward 2026.
Gresini Racing has once again shown its ability to bring out the best in its riders. The team’s calm working style and strong internal relationships created an ideal setting for Alex to thrive. Backed by key figures within the squad, he flourished in an atmosphere where racing became enjoyable again. That translated into an outstanding 2025 campaign, highlighted by race wins and a second-place finish in the championship.
While the Ducati GP24 was a highly competitive machine, Alex Marquez added his own improvements, addressing long-standing weaknesses such as tyre management over race distance. His consistency and racecraft elevated him to the level of a true title contender.
With VR46 opting not to take a second GP26, Gresini and Alex Marquez secured access to factory-level machinery for 2026, placing him on equal technical footing with Marc Marquez, Pecco Bagnaia, and Fabio Di Giannantonio. During the Valencia tests, Ducati engineers closely monitored Alex, treating him like a factory-level reference rider despite his customer contract.
Currently, Alex Marquez rides factory-spec equipment but remains on a customer deal, with a salary largely supported by Estrella Galicia, a key sponsor on the BK8 Gresini bikes. His future with Gresini appears secure, as he is performing strongly, winning races, and clearly enjoying his role within the team.
However, with his status as vice-world champion and his growing importance to Ducati’s development programme, the next step may depend on Ducati Corse deciding whether to offer him a full factory contract. For now, signs of recognition are already there, including factory support off-track, as Alex prepares for what could be a decisive 2026 season.
