P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Marquez exit only start of a MotoGP rider market ‘earthquake’
There is still no confirmation that Marc Marquez will join Gresini Racing as a satellite Ducati rider for 2024. However, with the news of his split from Honda already official, it is only a matter of time before this major MotoGP rider switch is completed, which will have significant implications for the rider market in the coming seasons. Fabio Di Giannantonio may be displaced from Gresini to make room for Marquez, and there may also be internal shuffling of Honda riders to fill the void left by Marquez. In the short-term, Johann Zarco is expected to join the satellite LCR Honda squad and potentially move up to the factory Repsol team if Marquez leaves. Joan Mir is likely to remain with Honda, as he is a proven world champion and an important asset for title sponsor Repsol. The job market may not be heavily affected by Zarco’s absence in LCR, with Iker Lecuona, Di Giannantonio, or a KTM rider being potential candidates to take over. The real earthquake changes will likely occur in 2025, when Marquez becomes a free agent and other teams start signing new riders. This situation particularly concerns Ducati and KTM, but there might be changes elsewhere on the grid that could play into Marquez’s hands. Ducati would do everything to retain Marquez if he performs well at Gresini, even if it means sacrificing their young riders. Ultimately, Marquez’s decision will have a significant impact on the MotoGP landscape.
Source: The Race
