Marc Essa choice seeks to reduce the physical demand on the right shoulder during riding and allow greater comfort in the first races of the year. The decision was revealed by Márquez himself in an interview with the broadcaster DAZN.
The injury occurred in the Indonesian stage and proved to be more complex than initially anticipated. Isso prevented Valência from participating in testing in late 2025 and drastically limited training during the holiday period. The rider only returned to riding any type of motorcycle at the end of December and tried the GP26 for the first time during the Sepang test in February 2026.
Recovery still underway
Márquez stated that he did not regain the same physical strength recorded in the previous season. Ele highlighted that the rehabilitation process took longer than expected and that the current focus is to progress gradually. Apesar of the restrictions, the Spaniard sees room for continuous advances in conditioning.
The choice of the aerodynamic package directly reflects this situation. The 2024 configuration requires less muscular effort in the shoulder and makes it easier to turn with greater precision. Márquez explained that the 2025 version demands greater physical resistance, which is not suitable for its current state.
Main reasons for technical choice
- 2024 package allows riding with less load on the right shoulder
- Configuration facilitates tighter turns and straight lines without so much effort
- 2025 version requires greater physical strength, incompatible with current recovery
- Possibility of transition to the 2025 package throughout the season remains open
Details of the complicated pre-season
During the test on Buriram, Márquez faced gastroenteritis that left him weak for a few days. The problem was treated with medication and did not prevent positive results, with the driver finishing as the best in Ducati in the session. On the Wednesday following the incident, he already reported regaining energy and willingness to train.
The crashes that occurred on the Thai circuit did not affect the overall planning. Márquez completed consistent laps and evaluated the bike’s behavior favorably, even with the necessary adaptations to his current physical condition.
Preparation for opening in Buriram
The Spaniard arrives at the Tailândia GP as one of the favorites to win in the first stage of 2026. Seu pace in pre-season tests demonstrated high competitiveness, even with the limitations imposed by the injury. The Ducati relies on the driver’s experience to get the most out of the adapted GP26 since the start of the season.
The technical strategy allows for a strong start without compromising long-term health. Márquez continues to monitor physical progress and plans progressive adjustments as confidence in the shoulder increases throughout the races.
Injury more serious than expected
Márquez reiterated that the fracture in Indonésia required prolonged care and completely altered preparation plans for 2026. The cautious approach aims to prevent relapses and ensure participation at all stages of the calendar.
The Ducati offers flexibility to modify the aerodynamic configuration as the recovery progresses. Essa possibility allows the pilot to maintain more natural riding at the beginning of the year while building a basis for possible future changes.
