Alex Marquez says his move to KTM for the 2027 MotoGP season is the fulfilment of a long-standing goal, with the Spaniard determined to return to a factory team after rebuilding his career over the past few years.
The six-time Grand Prix winner will leave Gresini Ducati at the end of the 2026 season to join KTM's factory squad, marking his first works ride since his one-year stint with Honda in 2020.
Marquez revealed that earning another factory seat became his main objective after enjoying a breakthrough 2025 campaign, when he finished as the highest placed independent rider in the championship.
"It was my target," Marquez said. "Last year, after finishing runner-up and having a really good season, I made it my goal to become a factory rider again."
He added that KTM's clear interest made the decision straightforward, especially with MotoGP entering a new era in 2027 under the incoming 850cc technical regulations.
"For me, it was really important to be in a factory team for the new regulations because there will be a lot of development. KTM showed they really wanted me, so it was an easy decision."
Marquez believes he is now far better prepared for the responsibility than when he first joined Honda as a MotoGP rookie in 2020. Back then, he was unexpectedly pushed into a leading role after his brother Marc Marquez missed almost the entire season through injury.
Although he claimed two podium finishes that year, Marquez admits the circumstances were difficult for a rookie. Now 30 years old and with seven seasons of MotoGP experience, he feels ready to help lead a factory project.
"I have the experience now. I know what I need from a bike, and I know how to work with engineers to improve it," he said.
Source: Naik Motor
While factory riders often receive more lucrative contracts, Marquez insisted money was not the deciding factor. Instead, he was attracted by KTM's long-term vision and the opportunity to play a key role in developing the bike for MotoGP's next generation.
He also revealed that leaving Gresini will be the most emotional part of the move.
After difficult seasons at Honda, Gresini gave Marquez the opportunity to rebuild his career with a competitive Ducati package. Since joining the independent Italian team, he has taken a Sprint victory and re-established himself as one of the championship's leading riders.
Marquez said he personally informed Gresini team principal Nadia Padovani of his decision, having promised he would speak to her first if a factory opportunity arose.
Although disappointed to lose one of her star riders, Padovani understood his decision and told him he had earned the chance to return to a factory team.
For Marquez, the move represents more than just a change of colours. It is the reward for years of perseverance and another opportunity to compete at the highest level with full factory backing as MotoGP enters a new chapter in 2027.
