In a shocking turn of events that has rocked the MotoGP world, six-time world champion Marc Marquez has reportedly rejected a €100 million contract extension from Honda, instead opting for a move that prioritises his passion for racing over financial security. The decision, revealed by Spanish motorsports magazine AS, marks a pivotal moment in Marquez’s illustrious career and underlines his relentless determination to regain his dominance on the track. Adding fuel to the fire, Ducati sporting director Gigi Dall’Igna chimed in with a succinct but punchy five-word comment: “Money should not be an issue.”
Marquez’s tenure with Honda, which has lasted more than a decade, has been marked by unparalleled success, with six MotoGP titles and a legacy as a spokesperson for the Japanese manufacturer’s racing programme. However, recent years have been marked by difficulties, including serious injuries and Honda’s decline in competitiveness in the face of Ducati’s technological superiority. The proposed four-year deal, worth €25 million per season until 2027, would have made Marquez one of the highest-paid riders in MotoGP history, dwarfing even the reported earnings of Yamaha’s Fabio Quartararo. Yet Marquez’s decision to forgo this life-changing sum speaks volumes about his priorities.
Sources close to the rider suggest that Marquez’s move was motivated by a desire to compete at the highest level rather than remain tied to a struggling project. Honda’s recent performances have been disappointing, with the RC213V unable to match Ducati’s dominant Desmosedici in the 2025 season. Marquez, who suffered a career-altering arm injury in 2020, has had to contend not only with physical issues but also with the frustration of riding an uncompetitive bike. His move to Gresini Racing on a one-year-old Ducati in 2024 has proved a masterstroke, earning him three Grand Prix wins and a third-place finish in the championship, paving the way for his current factory Ducati ride.
The 2025 season has seen Marquez return to his best form, winning seven of eight races, including all four sprints, and maintaining a 17-point lead over brother Alex Marquez in the standings. His seamless adaptation to Ducati has reignited the spark that once made him untouchable, with analysts highlighting his ability to extract the most from the bike’s performance. Ducati’s Davide Tardozzi praised this version of Marquez as the “most complete”, while warning that the 32-year-old remains “dangerous” and could dominate for another four or five years.
Marquez’s rejection of Honda’s offer was not without its sacrifices. His current contract with Ducati, worth around €5 million a year, represents a significant pay cut. However, the Spaniard’s focus on winning titles rather than accumulating wealth has earned him widespread respect. Dall’Igna’s comment, “Money should not be an issue,” summed up Marquez’s mindset, noting that for a rider of his caliber, the pursuit of victory outweighs financial incentives. The Ducati boss, aware of Honda’s colossal offer, praised Marquez’s ambition, noting that the rider’s hunger for success aligns perfectly with Ducati’s championship-focused philosophy.
The implications of Marquez’s decision go beyond his personal journey. His arrival at Ducati has created a “dream team” alongside two-time champion Francesco Bagnaia, setting the stage for a fierce rivalry within the team in 2025. While Bagnaia has been a cornerstone of Ducati’s recent success, Marquez’s experience and aggressive riding style adds a new dynamic to the squad. Team manager Davide Tardozzi remains confident in managing the duo, saying that working with champions is “very easy” compared to younger riders. However, the pressure is on, with both riders expected to fight for the title while navigating the complexities of team dynamics.
Marquez’s move also highlights the changing landscape of MotoGP, where Ducati’s dominance has forced other manufacturers to rethink their strategies. Honda, once a powerhouse, now faces the challenge of rebuilding without its star rider, while Marquez’s success on Ducati is a testament to the importance of having competitive machinery. His warning not to underestimate rivals such as Aprilia and KTM further underscores the unpredictable nature of the sport, where a single season can change everything.
As the 2025 season unfolds, all eyes will be on Marquez to see if he can give Ducati a 22nd consecutive win, equaling Honda’s all-time record. For now, his rejection of Honda’s huge contract and Dall’Igna’s succinct praise have cemented Marquez’s reputation as a rider driven by passion, not salary, in a sport where every decision is a high-stakes gamble.
