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Marc Marquez Opens 2026 in Thailand on Older Ducati Aero as Shoulder Limits Linger

A lingering injury has forced him to alter setup and riding style.

Overview

  • Marquez confirmed he will start with Ducati’s 2024 aerodynamics because the newer package is more physically demanding, saying he will adapt his style as fitness returns.
  • He suffered three crashes during the Buriram test and dealt with illness, shifting focus to his durability as commentators such as Peter Bom suggested he looks more vulnerable this year.
  • Aprilia underlined progress with Marco Bezzecchi fastest at Buriram and setting a new track record, though he cautioned that test times can be misleading.
  • Ducati remains the reference, with Alex Marquez moving to factory‑spec machinery after finishing 2025 as runner‑up and saying he is better prepared for a sustained title push.
  • This is the final 1,000cc season with homologated 2025 engines locking in performance, and Aprilia’s Jorge Martin said he is not yet fully fit after winter surgeries.