Five bombshell rider moves that shocked MotoGP
One of the biggest moves in MotoGP history was Marc Marquez’s transition from Honda to Ducati after 11 years with the Japanese manufacturer. This move was significant due to Honda’s declining performance in recent seasons, transforming from top contenders to having one of the weakest bikes on the grid. Another shocking move was Valentino Rossi’s decision to leave Honda for Yamaha, a team that hadn’t secured a premier class title in 12 years. However, this gamble paid off as Rossi led Yamaha back to victory and claimed two championships in 2008 and 2009. Casey Stoner also made a notable change by leaving Ducati for Honda, resulting in instant success as he won the title in 2011. Rossi’s move to Ducati, following Stoner’s departure, did not yield positive results, as he failed to win a race during his time there. Jorge Lorenzo, who joined Honda alongside Marquez in 2019, struggled to find his form after leaving Ducati, ultimately retiring a year later. Maverick Vinales had an unexpected mid-season departure from Yamaha in 2021, after tensions with the team led to his termination. He quickly landed a surprise move to Aprilia just three rounds later.
Source: Crash
