Alex Marquez will leave Gresini Ducati to join the Red Bull KTM factory team alongside Fabio Di Giannantonio, according to team announcements and interviews reported by KTMRiderTua.com and Ligaolahraga.com. The 30-year-old rider stated that his decision to switch manufacturers stems from a belief in KTM’s long-term project and a desire for factory support ahead of new 2027 regulations.
Why Alex Marquez Chose KTM Over Ducati
According to KTMRiderTua.com, Alex Marquez pointed to his initial conversation with KTM Motorsport Director Pit Beirer as the turning point. “They are aiming for a world title and I believe in this project,” Alex said, adding that management showed immediate determination to sign him. Ligaolahraga.com reported that Spanish outlet El Periodico suggested the move also followed friction over factory backing at Ducati, where Alex felt overlooked for a primary squad seat despite finishing as the 2025 championship runner-up behind his brother, Marc Marquez.
Contrasting 2025 Success With 2026 Recovery
The transition marks a shift from Alex’s standout 2025 campaign, where he secured three Grand Prix wins, three Sprint victories, and 26 podium finishes out of 44 starts with Gresini, as noted by Ligaolahraga.com. However, his season hit a major hurdle following a severe crash at the Catalan Grand Prix in May, where he struck Pedro Acosta’s slowing machine. According to KTMRiderTua.com, the incident forced him to miss the Mugello and Balaton Park rounds, dropping him to eighth in the current standings while Marc Marquez leads the championship.
Pro Tip: When evaluating rider market shifts in MotoGP, look beyond current standings to factory development timelines. As Alex noted regarding the upcoming 2027 technical changes, new bike concepts and personnel often drive veteran rider transfers more than single-season results.
Preparing for the 2027 Technical Shift
Looking ahead, Alex emphasized that KTM’s preparations for the 2027 regulatory overhaul influenced his choice. “On 2027 there will be a new bike, a new concept, and new personnel. I will give everything to help make that happen,” he told KTMRiderTua.com. Meanwhile, Ligaolahraga.com reported that Gresini retains options on young rider Fermin Aldeguer, whose contract runs through 2028, setting the stage for a restructured grid as Alex teams up with Di Giannantonio under Pit Beirer’s leadership.
Did you know? Alex Marquez acknowledged his age in comments to Spanish media outlet AS, stating, “I have to think rationally about the future. I am 30 years old. If not now, maybe never.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Which team is Alex Marquez joining?
According to KTMRiderTua.com, Alex Marquez is joining the Red Bull KTM factory team starting next season.
Who will be his teammate at KTM?
Fabio Di Giannantonio, currently with VR46 Ducati, will join Alex Marquez at KTM, as reported by KTMRiderTua.com.
Why did Alex Marquez leave Ducati?
KTMRiderTua.com reported that Alex believes in KTM’s project and title ambitions for the upcoming 2027 bike regulations, while Ligaolahraga.com noted reports from El Periodico indicating he felt underappreciated by Borgo Panigale management.
What affected his season?
According to KTMRiderTua.com, a heavy crash at the Catalan Grand Prix in May forced him to miss two rounds at Mugello and Balaton Park.
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