Alex Marquez and the Dream of the Ducati Factory Team: Replacing Bagnaia – Will a Reunion with Marc Become Reality in 2026?

In the unpredictable world of MotoGP, few narratives are as intriguing as the possibility of Alex Marquez making a shocking leap to the Ducati factory team—a move that could see him replace reigning world champion Francesco “Pecco” Bagnaia and reunite with his legendary brother Marc Marquez in 2026.

With contracts nearing expiration, rumors circulating in the paddock, and both Marquez brothers surging in form, the MotoGP grid may be on the cusp of a generational shift that could reshape the entire competitive landscape.

Let’s explore the reality behind this ambitious scenario, Ducati’s rider dilemmas, Bagnaia’s uncertain future, and whether 2026 could finally deliver the Marquez brothers on identical red rockets.

Alex Marquez: The Rise After the Rebuild

Alex Marquez’s MotoGP career has been a rollercoaster. After winning the Moto2 World Championship in 2019, he was fast-tracked to Repsol Honda in 2020 as Marc Marquez’s replacement following the elder brother’s serious arm injury.

But what was supposed to be a dream opportunity quickly became a nightmare. The Honda RC213V was a brutal machine—unpredictable, unstable, and nowhere near the level of Ducati or Yamaha. Despite two podiums in his rookie season, Alex’s potential was overshadowed by the bike’s deficiencies.

After a season with LCR Honda, Gresini Ducati threw him a lifeline in 2023. Since then, he’s looked reborn. A podium at Silverstone, consistent top-10 finishes, and a calm, methodical approach have redefined his reputation.

Now, in 2025, Alex Marquez is a top-10 championship contender, showing maturity, speed, and a deep understanding of the Ducati Desmosedici. His technical input is praised inside Gresini, and he’s finally out of the shadow of “Marc’s little brother.”

Bagnaia’s Uncertain Future: Will Ducati Let Him Go?

Francesco Bagnaia, the two-time MotoGP world champion, is Ducati’s golden boy. He brought the Bologna-based team back to glory in 2022 and successfully defended his title in 2023. His synergy with the factory team, work ethic, and off-track image make him the perfect ambassador for the brand.

But the MotoGP world is ruthless. And 2025 has exposed some cracks.

Bagnaia has been inconsistent, suffering DNFs and struggling with tire degradation. He’s still lightning-fast on his day, but rivals like Pedro Acosta, Marc Marquez, and Jorge Martin have closed the gap—or even surpassed him in raw pace.

Contractually, Bagnaia’s deal with Ducati ends in late 2025, and there have been whispers of interest from KTM and even Aprilia, who are searching for a proven title winner to lead their project. If Ducati believes Bagnaia has peaked or is unwilling to meet his salary demands, they may choose to part ways.

And that’s where Alex Marquez enters the equation.

Why Ducati Might Choose Alex Marquez for the Factory Ride

There are several reasons why Ducati may see Alex Marquez as a viable factory option in 2026:

1. Continuity and Experience with the Desmosedici: After three seasons with Gresini, Alex knows the Ducati inside out. He has built strong ties with engineers, adapted to the factory’s demands, and proven he can ride the bike at a high level without crashing.

2. Financial Logic: Ducati may be looking to reduce salary expenses. Bagnaia commands a top-tier salary. Alex, while not cheap, would come at a more reasonable cost, freeing up resources for development.

3. Marc Marquez Factor: If Ducati wants to retain Marc Marquez beyond 2025, pairing him with Alex could be a major incentive. The idea of “Team Marquez” in red would be a marketing dream. Millions of fans would tune in, bringing global attention and sponsorship opportunities.

4. Chemistry and Mentality: Alex’s calm demeanor and adaptability have made him a favorite among mechanics and engineers. He doesn’t cause friction within a team and has proven to be a reliable point scorer.

A Marquez Brothers Reunion: Fantasy or Fate?

Marc and Alex Marquez have never hidden their desire to ride together again. Their short stint as Repsol Honda teammates in 2020 was cut short by injury and circumstances. But they’ve always stated that riding for the same team under the right conditions is a dream they still harbor.

If Ducati allows Bagnaia to walk and promotes Alex to the factory squad, Marc extending his Ducati deal becomes exponentially more likely. The brothers would train, test, and strategize together—maximizing development and psychological strength.

Imagine the PR power of Ducati launching the Marquez Brothers MotoGP Assault in 2026. It would rival anything MotoGP has seen in recent years in terms of hype and fan engagement.

What About Jorge Martin and Pedro Acosta?

There are two major roadblocks to the Alex Marquez factory promotion: Jorge Martin and Pedro Acosta.

Martin is arguably the most deserving of the factory Ducati ride. He led the 2023 championship for most of the year and is currently one of the top two riders of the 2025 season. He’s aggressive, fast, and consistently podium-bound. However, Ducati snubbed him in favor of Bagnaia in 2024, creating tension.

He could still be promoted in 2026—but his relationship with Ducati’s management remains fragile. Aprilia and KTM are reportedly circling, waiting for Ducati to slip again.

Pedro Acosta, the teenage phenomenon from Spain, is seen as the future of MotoGP. KTM holds him tightly, but Ducati has reportedly shown interest. Acosta, however, might not be ready to leap to a team with Marc and Alex Marquez—he’d want to lead a project, not follow in anyone’s shadow.

What Has Alex Marquez Said About It All?

Alex Marquez has played his cards close to his chest. When asked about future ambitions, he typically responds with diplomacy:

“I’m happy at Gresini. The team trusts me, and I feel comfortable with the Ducati. But every rider dreams of the factory seat. If the opportunity comes, of course I’ll be ready.”

That subtle statement shows two things: Alex knows his value, and he’s willing to be patient. He’s not pushing for the factory ride publicly but is working every race to prove he deserves it.

Gresini’s Role and the Transition Possibility

Gresini Racing, an independent but deeply respected Ducati satellite team, has provided Alex with a career lifeline. Their family-like atmosphere and technical knowledge have helped him rediscover his form.

If Alex moves up, Gresini would likely promote a young rider—possibly from Moto2—or pick up a rider displaced in the offseason shuffle (such as Augusto Fernandez or Tony Arbolino).

There’s also the possibility that Gresini becomes even more strategically important to Ducati—maybe as a testing or development hub for new parts.

The Risks of Replacing Bagnaia

Make no mistake—replacing Pecco Bagnaia would be a seismic decision. Ducati has built its recent success around him. Removing their two-time champion in favor of the Marquez brothers would be a gamble.

It could either bring domination or internal conflict. Marc is a demanding, high-pressure figure. Alex is more cooperative, but their bond could intimidate engineers or tilt garage politics.

Still, Ducati’s management under Gigi Dall’Igna has never shied away from bold moves. Signing Jorge Lorenzo. Letting Andrea Dovizioso walk. Betting on Jack Miller. Taking on Marc Marquez.

They know MotoGP is not won with comfort—it’s won with courage.

Conclusion: A Bold New Era in 2026?

As the 2025 season marches on, Alex Marquez’s performances and Bagnaia’s uncertainty could align perfectly for a changing of the guard at Ducati. Add in the lure of a Marquez brothers dream team, and 2026 begins to look like the dawn of a new MotoGP era.

Will it happen? Nothing is confirmed. But the momentum is shifting.

Alex Marquez is no longer just “Marc’s little brother.” He’s a proven race winner, a development leader, and a dark horse in the championship. With the right opportunity—and perhaps, the right teammate—he could finally step into the spotlight he was always destined for.