Home / Sports / Ducati refutes claims of Marquez-centric bike development
Ducati refutes claims of Marquez-centric bike development
13 Oct
Summary
- Ducati denies Marc Marquez steered bike development for himself.
- Team manager states all riders can choose solutions suiting them.
- Aprilia's superiority at Mandalika noted, championship still open.
Ducati team manager Davide Tardozzi has firmly rejected suggestions that the team's 2026 MotoGP bike development has excessively favored Marc Marquez. He asserts that the Desmosedici GP is not solely tailored to Marquez, emphasizing that all factory riders, including those from satellite teams, have the freedom to choose components and setups that align with their individual needs. Tardozzi highlighted that riders like Pecco Bagnaia utilize different fairing and aerodynamic solutions compared to Marquez, demonstrating a commitment to personalized development.
Despite Aprilia's strong performance, particularly their dominant showing at the Indonesian Grand Prix, Tardozzi views the championship as still very much within reach. He acknowledged Aprilia's significant superiority at Mandalika but believes subsequent circuits will offer more opportunities for Ducati. The team manager also commented on Aprilia potentially using team orders to aid Jorge Martin, stating it would be a logical move for a rival manufacturer, while emphasizing Ducati's historical practice of supporting its satellite riders.
The team is focused on a race-by-race approach, with 185 points still up for grabs. Tardozzi noted that while Aprilia's grip at maximum lean angle presents challenges on certain tracks, Ducati is prepared to contend. He stressed that the current two-point deficit to championship leader Jorge Martin after Mandalika represents a satisfactory outcome given the circuit's historical challenges for both Marquez and the Desmosedici GP.
