Where Are Marc Marquez’s Best Chances of a First Ducati MotoGP Win in 2024?
Marc Marquez’s switch to Ducati for the 2024 MotoGP season has been one of the most talked-about moves in recent motorcycle racing history. After an illustrious career with Honda, where he claimed six MotoGP World Championships, Marquez is looking for a fresh start with the Italian manufacturer. The big question on everyone’s mind is: where are Marquez’s best chances of securing his first victory on a Ducati?
1. Circuit of the Americas (COTA) – Austin, Texas
Marc Marquez is often dubbed the “King of COTA” for good reason. He has dominated the Circuit of the Americas since its inception on the MotoGP calendar in 2013, winning seven out of the eight races held there. His affinity for the Texan circuit is well-known, with its combination of fast straights, sharp hairpins, and elevation changes suiting his aggressive riding style. Given Ducati’s strong top-end speed and Marquez’s mastery of the track, COTA is arguably his best chance for a first Ducati win.
2. Sachsenring – Germany
Another track where Marquez has been virtually unbeatable is Sachsenring. The German GP circuit, with its tight corners and anti-clockwise layout, plays perfectly into Marquez’s strengths. He has won at Sachsenring every year from 2013 to 2021, making it one of his most successful circuits. Ducati’s improved handling in 2023 has made them more competitive on twisty circuits, which could give Marquez the perfect platform to extend his winning record in Germany.
3. Aragón – Spain
Aragón is another track where Marquez has enjoyed considerable success in the past. With five wins in the premier class, the Spanish GP is one of his favorite hunting grounds. Ducati has also performed well at Aragón in recent years, with victories from Andrea Dovizioso and Francesco Bagnaia. The combination of Marquez’s experience at the track and Ducati’s recent success makes Aragón a strong contender for his first win with the Italian manufacturer.
4. Phillip Island – Australia
Phillip Island is a rider’s circuit, with its fast and flowing layout offering little margin for error. Marquez has shown his ability to push the limits at this circuit, claiming three wins in the premier class. Ducati has also been competitive at Phillip Island, with their bikes’ strong straight-line speed offering an advantage down the Gardner Straight. If Marquez can find the right balance with the Ducati, Phillip Island could see him back on the top step of the podium.
5. Mugello – Italy
Mugello is Ducati’s home race, and the passionate Italian fans expect nothing less than a win on home soil. While Marquez has only won once at Mugello in MotoGP, Ducati has a strong record at the circuit, with multiple victories in recent years. The long straights and high-speed corners suit the Ducati perfectly, and with Marquez’s undeniable talent, a victory at Mugello would be a fitting way to announce his arrival as a Ducati rider.
6. Misano – Italy
Misano, another Italian circuit, has been a happy hunting ground for Ducati, with recent wins by Bagnaia and Danilo Petrucci. Marquez has also enjoyed success here, with three wins in MotoGP. The tight and technical layout of Misano demands precision and bike control, both of which are Marquez’s specialties. A win here would not only please Ducati fans but also cement Marquez’s status as a title contender on his new bike.
7. Sepang – Malaysia
Sepang is another circuit where Ducati has traditionally been strong, thanks to its long straights and heavy braking zones. Marquez has also had success here, with two MotoGP wins. The challenging hot and humid conditions at Sepang make it a tough race for all riders, but Marquez’s fitness and determination could give him the edge needed to secure his first Ducati win in Malaysia.
Marc Marquez’s move to Ducati is one of the most anticipated storylines of the 2024 MotoGP season. While adapting to a new bike is always a challenge, Marquez has the talent and experience to quickly find his footing with Ducati. His best chances of securing a first win likely lie at circuits where he has previously dominated, such as COTA, Sachsenring, and Aragón. However, the combination of his skill and Ducati’s competitiveness could see him challenge for victories at a variety of tracks throughout the season. All eyes will be on Marquez as he embarks on this new chapter of his career, with many expecting him to add to his already impressive tally of MotoGP wins.
