{"id":1868226,"date":"2026-04-05T11:00:00","date_gmt":"2026-04-05T08:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1868226"},"modified":"2026-04-05T11:00:00","modified_gmt":"2026-04-05T08:00:00","slug":"motogp-winner-wouldnt-be-surprised-if-marc-marquez-retires-after-next-title","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1868226","title":{"rendered":"MotoGP winner \u201cwouldn\u2019t be surprised\u201d if Marc Marquez retires after next title"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1298958_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9&#8243;]<\/p>\n<article>\n<header id=\"lbs-article\" class=\"article header article-header section layout layout--article-header\">\n<div class=\"col headline\">\n<div>\n<h1>MotoGP winner \u201cwouldn\u2019t be surprised\u201d if Marc Marquez retires after next title<\/h1>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"summary body\">\n<p>Marco Melandri believes Marc Marquez could retire if he wins the title in 2026<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"section two-column\">\n<div class=\"col article-info\">\n<div>\n<address> Lewis Duncan <\/address>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div><time datetime=\"2026-04-06T11:09:25+00:00\">Updated: 06 Apr 2026<\/time><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"col article-actions\">\n<div class=\"block block-better-social-sharing-buttons block-social-sharing-buttons-block\">\n<div class=\"social-sharing-buttons\"><span class=\"ssb-title\"> Share<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/header>\n<div id=\"lbs-content\" class=\"content wide-two-column-sticky section layout layout--wide-two-column-sticky\">\n<div class=\"col first-column\">\n<div>\n<div>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1298958_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1298958_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1298958_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1298958_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1298958_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1298958_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1298958_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1298958_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1298958_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Marc Marquez, Ducati Corse, 2026 Brazil MotoGP<\/div>\n<div class=\"source\"> \u00a9\u00a0Gold and Goose<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"block block-preferred-source\">\n<div class=\"preferred-source-cta\">  Add as a preferred source <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"body\">\n<p>MotoGP race winner Marco Melandri says he \u201cwouldn\u2019t be surprised\u201d if Marc Marquez won the 2026 title and retired, after the 2025 championship \u201ctook its toll\u201d.<\/p>\n<p>Marc Marquez won a seventh MotoGP world title last year five years on from the serious arm injury that threatened his career.<\/p>\n<p>It drew him level with Valentino Rossi\u2019s tally and one away from Giacomo Agostini\u2019s all-time record of eight.<\/p>\n<p>Marquez started the 2026 season as title favourite, but hasn\u2019t enjoyed an easy opening three rounds, with the Ducati rider yet to finish on the podium in a grand prix.<\/p>\n<p>He does have a sprint win and podium to his credit, but Ducati has been a step behind Aprilia in the main races, while Marquez continues to suffer from the shoulder injury he sustained in Indonesia last season.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>In a recent interview, Andrea Dovizioso said Marquez\u2019s physical situation is \u201cmore serious than it seems\u201d, while the Ducati rider labelled it \u201ccritical\u201d himself at the US Grand Prix.<\/p>\n<p>Speaking with <em>GPOne, <\/em>Marco Melandri, who won five races in MotoGP, said he believes the effort required for Marquez to win the 2025 title \u201chas taken its toll\u201d and considers retirement if he is victorious again this season as a possibility.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-a0b9e6252a7f07afffa11a78b55b12e8589881bf781b8e900d6cae0464baf8aa\">  The biggest winners and losers from MotoGP 2026&#8217;s first three rounds   Former Marc Marquez MotoGP rival warns his \u201csituation is more serious than it seems\u201d <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>\u201cHe remains the most well-rounded rider overall, even if he\u2019s perhaps less explosive than last year,\u201d he said during the Brazilian Grand Prix.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cMore than the injury, I think the mental effort required to win the title back has taken its toll, because in my opinion, he gave more than 110% in 2025.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cHe remains the favourite, but if [Marco] Bezzecchi manages himself well, he could seriously join the fight.\u201d<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article_2\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-1b00db4eaa7c55f5a9db5f1cc012a6b491005be41504c21f6978252276db9da2\">  New Ducati video reveals worrying Marc Marquez claim: \u201cThe bike is critical, but so am I\u201d   Gigi Dall\u2019Igna labels Ducati\u2019s US MotoGP a \u201cwake-up call\u201d after \u201clacklustre\u201d race <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>He added: \u201cIf Marquez were to win the title, he might even decide to retire at the end of the season.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThat\u2019s how I see it. I wouldn\u2019t be surprised if he were to stop after his 10th [grand prix] title.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Marquez\u2019s current deal with Ducati expires at the end of this season, though he is set to remain with the Italian marque into 2027.<\/p>\n<p>He admitted earlier this year that his physical situation had delayed the signing of a new deal.<\/p>\n<p>However, announcements for all riders have largely been put on hold while the manufacturers discuss a new commercial deal with the championship.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block block-echobox\">\n<h2>Subscribe to our MotoGP Newsletter<\/h2>\n<div class=\"info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-info\" id=\"edit-info--2\">\n<p>Get the latest MotoGP news, exclusives, interviews and promotions from the paddock direct to your inbox<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"extra-info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-legal\" id=\"edit-legal--2\">\n<p>For more information see our Privacy Policy<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<h2>In this article<\/h2>\n<div>\n<div class=\"field_keywords\">Marc Marquez<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"block block-next-prev\">\n<div class=\"next-prev-pager contextual-region\">\n<div class=\"items\">\n<div class=\"item prev\">\n<h3>  Previous<\/h3>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\"> Former Marc Marquez MotoGP rival warns his \u201csituation is more serious than it seems\u201d<\/div>\n<source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1300863_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1300863_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1300863_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1300863_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1300863_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1300863_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1300863_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1300863_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1300863_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"item next\">\n<h3> Next <\/h3>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\"> Johann Zarco details eye-opening Honda lap time acting as &#8220;a sign&#8221;<\/div>\n<source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1304316_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1304316_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1304316_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1304316_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1304316_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1304316_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1304316_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1304316_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1304316_hires_1600x900.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"article-author-block block block-configurable-views-block\">\n<div class=\"author-view grid-view js-view-dom-id-3d5eddf310cdf4d9ea2aa734f7050b1499d2a350a915c139ce4bb2c95752fe6c\">\n<div class=\"card user default\">\n<div class=\"image\"> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/pictures\/unnamed%20%2826%29.jpg?height=270&amp;format=webp 270w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/pictures\/unnamed%20%2826%29.jpg?height=180&amp;format=webp 180w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/pictures\/unnamed%20%2826%29.jpg?height=90&amp;format=webp 90w\" sizes=\"100px\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"info\">\n<div class=\"header\">\n<div class=\"text\">\n<div class=\"name\">Lewis Duncan<\/div>\n<div class=\"role\">Head of Editorial<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"desc\">\n<div>Lewis joined the Crash.net team in August of 2024 having been a journalist for five years covering MotoGP for the Motorsport Network. In February of 2026, he became Head of Editorial.\u00a0<\/div>\n<div>\u00a0<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"views-element-container block block-views-blockrelated-content-related-content-block\">\n<h3>More News<\/h3>\n<div class=\"grid-view grid-2 js-view-dom-id-77de106b405c19509f72cccd83950f96df5c348aa291aaf7fc17be9bb3330297\">\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> MotoGP  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Podcast: Are Marc Marquez\u2019s MotoGP title hopes already in jeopardy?<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1774887076\"> 30\/03\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/gng_1303115_hires.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Marc Marquez, Ducati Corse, 2026 US MotoGP\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> MotoGP  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Tardozzi: Marc Marquez still &#8220;not in good shape&#8221; despite US MotoGP speed<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1774882895\"> 30\/03\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/gng_1304349_hires_1600x900.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Marc Marquez, 2026 US MotoGP.\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> MotoGP  Feature <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>US MotoGP a shuddering warning for Ducati\u2019s title defence<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1774867309\"> 30\/03\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/gng_1301573_hires.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Marc Marquez, Ducati Corse, 2026 US MotoGP\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> MotoGP  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Marc Marquez \u201cpaid a very expensive price\u201d in US MotoGP<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1774828114\"> 30\/03\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/gng_1304443_hires.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Marc Marquez, 2026 US MotoGP.\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> MotoGP  Results <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>COTA: New 2026 MotoGP World Championship standings<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1774818273\"> 29\/03\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/gng_1303214_hires_1600x900.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Marco Bezzecchi, Jorge Martin, 2026 US MotoGP.\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> MotoGP  Race Report <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Marco Bezzecchi continues perfect start to 2026 with dominant US MotoGP display<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1774817429\"> 29\/03\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/gng_1303214_hires.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Marco Bezzecchi, Jorge Martin, 2026 US MotoGP.\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"col second-column\">\n<div class=\"sticky\">\n<div class=\"block block-echobox\">\n<h2>Subscribe to our MotoGP Newsletter<\/h2>\n<div class=\"info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-info\" id=\"edit-info\">\n<p>Get the latest MotoGP news, exclusives, interviews and promotions from the paddock direct to your inbox<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"extra-info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-legal\" id=\"edit-legal\">\n<p>For more information see our Privacy Policy<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div class=\"summary body\">\n<p>Marco Melandri believes Marc Marquez could retire if he wins the title in 2026<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"body\">\n<p>MotoGP race winner Marco Melandri says he \u201cwouldn\u2019t be surprised\u201d if Marc Marquez won the 2026 title and retired, after the 2025 championship \u201ctook its toll\u201d.<\/p>\n<p>Marc Marquez won a seventh MotoGP world title last year five years on from the serious arm injury that threatened his career.<\/p>\n<p>It drew him level with Valentino Rossi\u2019s tally and one away from Giacomo Agostini\u2019s all-time record of eight.<\/p>\n<p>Marquez started the 2026 season as title favourite, but hasn\u2019t enjoyed an easy opening three rounds, with the Ducati rider yet to finish on the podium in a grand prix.<\/p>\n<p>He does have a sprint win and podium to his credit, but Ducati has been a step behind Aprilia in the main races, while Marquez continues to suffer from the shoulder injury he sustained in Indonesia last season.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>In a recent interview, Andrea Dovizioso said Marquez\u2019s physical situation is \u201cmore serious than it seems\u201d, while the Ducati rider labelled it \u201ccritical\u201d himself at the US Grand Prix.<\/p>\n<p>Speaking with <em>GPOne, <\/em>Marco Melandri, who won five races in MotoGP, said he believes the effort required for Marquez to win the 2025 title \u201chas taken its toll\u201d and considers retirement if he is victorious again this season as a possibility.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-a0b9e6252a7f07afffa11a78b55b12e8589881bf781b8e900d6cae0464baf8aa\">  The biggest winners and losers from MotoGP 2026&#8217;s first three rounds   Former Marc Marquez MotoGP rival warns his \u201csituation is more serious than it seems\u201d <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>\u201cHe remains the most well-rounded rider overall, even if he\u2019s perhaps less explosive than last year,\u201d he said during the Brazilian Grand Prix.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cMore than the injury, I think the mental effort required to win the title back has taken its toll, because in my opinion, he gave more than 110% in 2025.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cHe remains the favourite, but if [Marco] Bezzecchi manages himself well, he could seriously join the fight.\u201d<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article_2\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-1b00db4eaa7c55f5a9db5f1cc012a6b491005be41504c21f6978252276db9da2\">  New Ducati video reveals worrying Marc Marquez claim: \u201cThe bike is critical, but so am I\u201d   Gigi Dall\u2019Igna labels Ducati\u2019s US MotoGP a \u201cwake-up call\u201d after \u201clacklustre\u201d race <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>He added: \u201cIf Marquez were to win the title, he might even decide to retire at the end of the season.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThat\u2019s how I see it. I wouldn\u2019t be surprised if he were to stop after his 10th [grand prix] title.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Marquez\u2019s current deal with Ducati expires at the end of this season, though he is set to remain with the Italian marque into 2027.<\/p>\n<p>He admitted earlier this year that his physical situation had delayed the signing of a new deal.<\/p>\n<p>However, announcements for all riders have largely been put on hold while the manufacturers discuss a new commercial deal with the championship.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block block-echobox\">\n<h2>Subscribe to our MotoGP Newsletter<\/h2>\n<div class=\"info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-info\" id=\"edit-info--2\">\n<p>Get the latest MotoGP news, exclusives, interviews and promotions from the paddock direct to your inbox<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"extra-info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-legal\" id=\"edit-legal--2\">\n<p>For more information see our Privacy Policy<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"body\">\n<p>MotoGP race winner Marco Melandri says he \u201cwouldn\u2019t be surprised\u201d if Marc Marquez won the 2026 title and retired, after the 2025 championship \u201ctook its toll\u201d.<\/p>\n<p>Marc Marquez won a seventh MotoGP world title last year five years on from the serious arm injury that threatened his career.<\/p>\n<p>It drew him level with Valentino Rossi\u2019s tally and one away from Giacomo Agostini\u2019s all-time record of eight.<\/p>\n<p>Marquez started the 2026 season as title favourite, but hasn\u2019t enjoyed an easy opening three rounds, with the Ducati rider yet to finish on the podium in a grand prix.<\/p>\n<p>He does have a sprint win and podium to his credit, but Ducati has been a step behind Aprilia in the main races, while Marquez continues to suffer from the shoulder injury he sustained in Indonesia last season.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>In a recent interview, Andrea Dovizioso said Marquez\u2019s physical situation is \u201cmore serious than it seems\u201d, while the Ducati rider labelled it \u201ccritical\u201d himself at the US Grand Prix.<\/p>\n<p>Speaking with <em>GPOne, <\/em>Marco Melandri, who won five races in MotoGP, said he believes the effort required for Marquez to win the 2025 title \u201chas taken its toll\u201d and considers retirement if he is victorious again this season as a possibility.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-a0b9e6252a7f07afffa11a78b55b12e8589881bf781b8e900d6cae0464baf8aa\">  The biggest winners and losers from MotoGP 2026&#8217;s first three rounds   Former Marc Marquez MotoGP rival warns his \u201csituation is more serious than it seems\u201d <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>\u201cHe remains the most well-rounded rider overall, even if he\u2019s perhaps less explosive than last year,\u201d he said during the Brazilian Grand Prix.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cMore than the injury, I think the mental effort required to win the title back has taken its toll, because in my opinion, he gave more than 110% in 2025.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cHe remains the favourite, but if [Marco] Bezzecchi manages himself well, he could seriously join the fight.\u201d<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article_2\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-1b00db4eaa7c55f5a9db5f1cc012a6b491005be41504c21f6978252276db9da2\">  New Ducati video reveals worrying Marc Marquez claim: \u201cThe bike is critical, but so am I\u201d   Gigi Dall\u2019Igna labels Ducati\u2019s US MotoGP a \u201cwake-up call\u201d after \u201clacklustre\u201d race <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>He added: \u201cIf Marquez were to win the title, he might even decide to retire at the end of the season.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThat\u2019s how I see it. I wouldn\u2019t be surprised if he were to stop after his 10th [grand prix] title.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Marquez\u2019s current deal with Ducati expires at the end of this season, though he is set to remain with the Italian marque into 2027.<\/p>\n<p>He admitted earlier this year that his physical situation had delayed the signing of a new deal.<\/p>\n<p>However, announcements for all riders have largely been put on hold while the manufacturers discuss a new commercial deal with the championship.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block block-echobox\">\n<h2>Subscribe to our MotoGP Newsletter<\/h2>\n<div class=\"info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-info\" id=\"edit-info--2\">\n<p>Get the latest MotoGP news, exclusives, interviews and promotions from the paddock direct to your inbox<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"extra-info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-legal\" id=\"edit-legal--2\">\n<p>For more information see our Privacy Policy<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<p>[analyse_source url=&#8221;http:\/\/crash.net\/motogp\/news\/1092849\/1\/motogp-winner-wouldnt-be-surprised-if-marc-marquez-retires-after-next-title&#8221;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/gng_1298958_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9&#8243;] MotoGP winner \u201cwouldn\u2019t be surprised\u201d if Marc Marquez retires after next title Marco Melandri believes Marc Marquez could retire if he wins the title in 2026 Lewis Duncan Updated: 06 Apr 2026 Share Marc Marquez, Ducati Corse, 2026 Brazil MotoGP \u00a9\u00a0Gold and Goose Add as a preferred source MotoGP race winner Marco [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[47,226],"class_list":["post-1868226","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-politics","tag-crash-net","tag-crawlmanager"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1868226","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1868226"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1868226\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1868226"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1868226"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1868226"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}