sports
Ducati’s MotoGP dominance shaken as Marc Márquez remains below full fitness
After seasons of near-total control, Ducati faces a stronger Aprilia threat and must manage the physical recovery of lead rider Marc Márquez while rushing technical upgrades.
Apr 1st 2026 · Italy
Insights
- Ducati failed to place either factory rider on the podium at the Circuit of the Americas.
- Aprilia, with Marco Bezzecchi, has become noticeably more competitive and is challenging Ducati’s recent supremacy.
- Ducati is working under Gigi Dall’Igna to accelerate bike development and will use the Jerez break to seek solutions.
- Marc Márquez is not yet at 100 percent after his shoulder injury and reported clearer pace only later in races.
- Márquez recovered from 11th to 5th in Austin after serving a penalty, showing pace but ongoing physical limits.