Marc Marquez has revealed that the striking photo showing the condition of his right shoulder was a deliberate move designed to end repeated questions about his fitness.
The Ducati rider attracted widespread attention after posting a shirtless image on Instagram following the Aragon Grand Prix. The photo clearly showed the significant difference in muscle mass between his right and left shoulders, highlighting the lasting effects of his injuries and multiple surgeries.
Rather than being a random image from his weekend, Marquez admitted that he had deliberately chosen to share it after becoming frustrated with constant questions about his physical condition.
The six-time MotoGP champion said the idea came after the Aragon GP, where he once again faced questions about his injured arm. He then discussed the situation with his team before deciding that showing the reality of his condition would be the simplest way to end the speculation.
“I was tired of answering the same questions,” Marquez said ahead of the San Marino Grand Prix.
“It was my idea. My team always gives me feedback, but this was something very personal. I thought it was the best way to stop the questions about my physical condition.”
Source: AutoHebdo
Marquez's right shoulder was seriously injured again during the Indonesian GP last October after he was hit by Aprilia rider Marco Bezzecchi. He subsequently underwent two operations and continues to deal with reduced muscle strength in the affected arm.
The injury has affected his performance compared with his championship-winning 2025 season, but Marquez insists he remains competitive and is determined to make the most of his current condition.
“It is like it is. I still am enjoying it, I still feel competitive and with what I have I try to do my maximum every weekend,” he said.
For Marquez, however, the repeated discussion surrounding his injury had become more than just an inconvenience. He felt it was beginning to take away valuable mental energy that could instead be directed towards his championship campaign.
“The questions about my arm were taking some energy from me,” he explained.
“So, if I want to fight for this championship I need to have my energy and full focus on the track.”
The decision appears to have achieved its intended purpose. By showing the extent of the muscle loss himself, Marquez has given fans and the media a clear picture of his condition while making it clear that he does not want the subject to dominate the remainder of his season.
With the 2026 MotoGP title fight entering a crucial stage, Marquez now wants the focus to return to what happens on track.
“It was my strategy and like this I'm more relaxed,” he said.
For the reigning champion, the message is simple. His shoulder may not be at full strength, but he remains focused on competing for another MotoGP crown.
