Marc Marquez came into the 2024 MotoGP World Championship as an unknown entity as he began a new chapter in his racing career.
The Spaniard had spent 11 seasons in the Repsol Honda garage riding for the Japanese manufacturer. But he decided to switch to Ducati in 2024 with the Gresini Racing MotoGP squad.
Marquez ended his first season with the Italian manufacturer in third in the standings. Despite not winning his ninth World Championship, Marquez believes he has won more than a title as thoughts of retiring from MotoGP have left his mind.
"I did not win a title this year, but on a personal and professional level, I have won much more," Marquez stated at an Estrella Galicia 0,0 event.
"I have found myself again, I have been able to extend my sporting career and not worry about whether I should continue or not. Those are the little concerns that seem unimaginable right now. But in the situation I was in, it crossed my mind."
Marquez's decision to leave Honda after such a long period was obviously a gamble from the 31-year-old. However, Marquez has always claimed that he had a strategy in 2023 when he took the Gresini ride.
It appears that Marquez's strategy has worked as he will ride for the Ducati Lenovo Team in 2025. His goals for 2025 also seem rather simple as he wants to 'be fast on track'.
"When you come from a difficult situation you have to have a strategy for the future," Marquez stated. "This is what I planned in 2023 when I took the decision to go to Gresini.
"Everything that came later was a consequence of achieving good results on track. But for next year, the plan is already established: to be fast on track to achieve objectives."
After being out of the title fight since 2019 Marquez has already backed himself in the 2025 season. Many expect next season's battle for the MotoGP crown to be between Marquez and his new teammate, Francesco Bagnaia.
However, Marquez believes that the other manufacturers of KTM and Aprilia will be more involved next season.
"It won't just be a Championship between Pecco and me, me and Pecco," Marquez explained. "It is not just Ducati racing. We will see how the other manufacturers evolve, Pedro Acosta [KTM], and Jorge Martin with Aprilia. This year, Aprilia won races with Maverick Vinales. Pedro Acosta was really close.
"We will try to give our 100%, but I am well aware that it is going to be really difficult. Everything has to be perfect to win a World Championship."
