Recently released footage from MotoGP.com shows that Marc Marquez and his Ducati team misunderstood the penalty consequences of his last-minute bike swap at COTA, despite meticulous planning with crew chief Marco Rigamonti.
Marquez believed that by leaving the grid to switch to his dry bike, he would only start last without further penalties. However, race officials confirmed that he would have received a ride-through penalty, which typically costs 25-30 seconds. If the race had started as planned, Marquez would have returned to pole but then had to serve the penalty.
The video captures Marquez discussing his plan with Rigamonti, who initially confirmed the strategy but later hesitated and sought clarification from team manager Davide Tardozzi. Tardozzi correctly stated that leaving the grid for a bike swap results in a ride-through penalty, but by that point, Marquez had already decided on his move.
Marquez’s last-minute sprint to the pits triggered chaos, delaying the start. Race director Mike Webb later clarified that the rules had been updated after a similar 2018 Argentina incident, ensuring penalties for such actions. However, due to safety concerns and the mass exodus of riders following Marquez’s lead, the start was officially delayed, and penalties were avoided.
Although Marquez initially turned his pole position into an early race lead, he crashed out on lap nine, handing victory to Ducati teammate Francesco Bagnaia. Alex Marquez and Fabio Di Giannantonio completed the podium.
Marquez also admitted post-race that he had intentionally tried to force a start delay by prompting over 10 riders to leave the grid. However, officials clarified that this rule only applies if 10+ riders intend to start from pit lane, not just leave the grid momentarily.
The next round of MotoGP takes place in Qatar from April 11-13.
