Marc Marquez’s challenging MotoGP campaign has taken a clearer shape after Ducati confirmed the Spaniard had been racing while managing a long-term shoulder injury before his recent crash and surgeries.
The eight-time world champion underwent two operations following his accident at Le Mans, where he fractured his foot. Alongside the foot surgery, Marquez also finally addressed a shoulder problem that had reportedly been affecting him since the 2022 Indonesian Grand Prix.
The injury helps explain Marquez’s inconsistent form earlier this season, particularly his struggles to convert strong pace into Sunday podium finishes. Despite the physical limitations, the Spaniard still showed flashes of his trademark speed, including setting a lap record during the Le Mans sprint race.
Ducati team manager Davide Tardozzi said the surgeries have brought relief to both Marquez and the team, revealing that the rider had been carrying the burden of the injury since the start of the season.
According to Tardozzi, Marquez feels optimistic about his recovery and believes removing the underlying shoulder issue could help him return closer to his best form. The Ducati boss also praised the Spaniard’s determination, saying few riders would have been able to compete under similar physical conditions.
Marquez will miss the upcoming Catalan Grand Prix as he focuses on rehabilitation, with Ducati expected to field only Francesco Bagnaia for the Barcelona round. Should Marquez require additional recovery time beyond the Italian GP later this month, test rider Michele Pirro and World Superbike contender Nicolò Bulega have both been mentioned as possible replacement options.
Despite the setback, Ducati remains confident Marquez can make a strong return once fully fit. The team believes resolving the shoulder problem could allow the former champion to compete at a much higher level during the remainder of the season.
