In the world of MotoGP, rumors have been swirling for some time, but it’s now official: six-time MotoGP champion Marc Marquez and Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) have mutually agreed to terminate their contract. With one year remaining on their agreement, both parties have decided that going their separate ways is the best course of action to pursue their respective future goals.

Marc Marquez: The End of an 11-Year Journey with HRC

Marc Marquez, often referred to as “the man” and “the machine,” burst onto the MotoGP scene in 2013, clinching the world championship in the same year and successfully defending his title in 2014. From 2016 to 2019, Marquez entered total domination mode, reigning as the undisputed champion for four consecutive years.

However, in 2020, the Marquez juggernaut hit a roadblock when he suffered a serious arm injury during a crash at Jerez. The road to recovery was paved with four surgeries and the challenge of diplopia, or double vision. It was only last year that the Spaniard’s fourth surgery improved his arm’s flexibility and mobility.

Marc Marquez: What’s on the Horizon? Gresini Ducati?

This is the moment that fans and enthusiasts have been eagerly awaiting: Marquez’s potential partnership with Ducati. While it might not be with the factory team, Gresini presents an opportunity to propel the Spaniard back to his peak performance. Just last weekend, Cal Crutchlow remarked, “If Marc were to make the switch to Ducati, the competition wouldn’t stand a chance.”

It’s safe to say that not all MotoGP riders will welcome this news with open arms once it becomes official. Additionally, this partnership would mark a reunion of the Marquez brothers, as Marc’s younger brother, Alex, made the switch to Gresini from LCR Honda earlier this year. Until Team Marquez makes the official announcement, all signs are pointing towards a future with Gresini Ducati.