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After finishing runner-up to brother Marc and earning a promotion to factory-spec Ducati machinery, Alex Marquez says it’s “natural” for his name to be among the 2026 MotoGP title contenders.
Alex Marquez, the title runner-up to his brother Marc, is set to be promoted to the latest factory-spec Ducati machinery, making his name a natural contender for the 2026 MotoGP world championship. Securing second place in the standings with two rounds to go at Sepang, he has had a breakthrough season with 24 podiums and three grand prix victories on a year-old GP24. The upcoming upgrade will give Gresini access to the latest factory-spec Desmosedicis for the first time, placing Alex alongside Marc Marquez, Francesco Bagnaia, and VR46’s Fabio di Giannantonio. Alex aims to continue building on the progress made this year and improve at circuits where they have struggled before. He acknowledges the pressure that comes with riding factory machinery but believes it can serve as motivation for him and his team. Reflecting on his successful campaign, Alex highlights consistency, staying calm in difficult situations, and the importance of continuous improvement. With Gresini having secured the Independent Team title in Malaysia, Alex looks forward to the final two rounds of the season without pressure, starting at Portimao.
