Marc Marquez will not be replaced by Ducati at this weekend’s Catalan Grand Prix, with the factory team confirming it will field only Francesco Bagnaia in Barcelona.
The decision follows Marquez’s absence after the reigning MotoGP world champion underwent surgery on both his right foot and shoulder following his heavy crash during the French Grand Prix sprint race at Le Mans.
Ducati stated there are currently no plans to call up a replacement rider for the Barcelona round, meaning Bagnaia will carry the responsibility alone for the factory squad throughout the weekend.
Under MotoGP regulations, manufacturers are not required to replace a rider immediately for a single missed event. However, Ducati would likely need to nominate a substitute if Marquez’s recovery keeps him out for a longer period.
Many expected Ducati test rider Michele Pirro to step in, but the Italian will not feature at the Catalan round. Another possible option, World Superbike star Nicolo Bulega, was also unavailable due to clashing commitments at Most this weekend.
Marquez’s absence is another major setback in what has already become a difficult title defence. The Spaniard has struggled with injuries throughout the season and currently sits well behind championship leader Marco Bezzecchi in the standings.
The 33-year-old crashed heavily during the closing stages of the Le Mans sprint and suffered a fractured metatarsal in his right foot. Ducati later confirmed he also brought forward a planned shoulder operation after ongoing discomfort linked to previous injuries.
While Ducati has not given a precise timeline for his return, early expectations suggest Marquez could target a comeback at Mugello later this month if recovery progresses smoothly.
For Bagnaia, the Barcelona weekend now carries added importance as Ducati attempts to limit the damage in both the riders’ and constructors’ championships without its star rider.
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