In a stunning twist in the MotoGP paddock, Alex Marquez has ignited a firestorm of controversy with a bold statement directed at Ducati, effectively sidelining Fabio Quartararo’s aspirations to join the Italian manufacturer. The younger Marquez brother, currently riding for Gresini Racing, declared with unwavering confidence, “It’s clear that he [Quartararo] is not suitable for Ducati. I am the one who fits best alongside Marc Marquez.” This provocative comment has sent shockwaves through the MotoGP community, raising questions about team dynamics, rider rivalries, and Ducati’s future lineup decisions.
The backdrop to this drama is the highly competitive 2025 MotoGP season, where rider contracts and team alignments are under intense scrutiny. Ducati, a dominant force in recent years, has been a coveted destination for top riders, thanks to its Desmosedici GP bike, widely regarded as the grid’s most competitive machine. Fabio Quartararo, the 2021 MotoGP world champion, has been vocal about his frustrations with Yamaha’s lack of progress, fueling speculation that he might seek a move to Ducati to revive his championship ambitions. However, Alex Marquez’s recent remarks have thrown a wrench into those plans, positioning himself as the ideal teammate for his brother, Marc Marquez, who currently rides for Ducati’s factory team.
Alex’s statement is rooted in the unique synergy he shares with his older brother, Marc, an eight-time world champion. The Marquez brothers have a long history of mutual support, both on and off the track. Alex, who has steadily improved his performance in MotoGP, believes that his riding style and data-sharing capabilities complement Marc’s aggressive approach, creating a formidable partnership within Ducati. “Marc and I understand each other’s needs on the bike,” Alex said in a recent interview. “We push each other to be better, and I know how to work with him to get the best out of the Ducati. It’s a dynamic that’s hard to replicate.”
This claim has sparked debate about Quartararo’s compatibility with Ducati’s machine. The Frenchman, known for his smooth and precise riding style, has struggled to extract consistent performance from Yamaha’s M1 in recent seasons. While Quartararo’s talent is undeniable, some paddock insiders argue that his style may not mesh seamlessly with the Desmosedici’s demanding characteristics, which reward aggressive throttle control and late braking—traits that both Marquez brothers excel at. Alex’s comments seem to exploit this narrative, subtly questioning whether Quartararo could adapt to Ducati’s setup as effectively as he and Marc have.
The timing of Alex’s statement is particularly significant, as Ducati is reportedly evaluating its rider lineup for 2026. With Marc Marquez firmly entrenched as a factory rider and Francesco Bagnaia, the reigning champion, locked in as Ducati’s lead rider, the competition for remaining seats is fierce. Alex’s current role at Gresini, a Ducati satellite team, gives him a platform to showcase his value to the manufacturer, and his recent performances have been solid, if not spectacular. By publicly staking his claim, Alex is not only asserting his own credentials but also sending a message to Ducati’s management that he deserves consideration over external candidates like Quartararo.
For Quartararo, this development is a bitter pill to swallow. The 26-year-old has been open about his desire to compete on a more competitive bike, and Ducati’s dominance makes it an attractive option. However, Alex’s comments may force Quartararo to rethink his strategy. Remaining with Yamaha, which is undergoing a technical overhaul, or exploring other manufacturers like KTM or Aprilia could be his only viable paths forward. The Frenchman has remained diplomatic in response, stating, “I focus on my racing and let the results speak for themselves. My goal is to win, no matter the bike.”
The MotoGP fanbase has been quick to react, with social media platforms buzzing with opinions on Alex’s bold declaration. Some fans applaud his confidence and loyalty to his brother, while others see it as an unnecessary jab at Quartararo, whose talent remains unquestioned. The rivalry between the Marquez brothers and other top riders adds another layer of intrigue to an already thrilling season.
As the 2025 season progresses, all eyes will be on Ducati’s decisions and how Alex Marquez backs up his words with performance. For now, his message is clear: he believes he is the perfect fit alongside Marc, and Quartararo’s Ducati dreams may have to wait. The MotoGP silly season just got a lot spicier, and the battle for supremacy is heating up both on and off the track.
