Marc Márquez has officially taken another significant step in his 2026 MotoGP preparations. He is returning to full-fledged track activity after his injury setback in October last year. The eight-time World Champion spent two intensive days at the Aspar Circuit in Valencia. Wherein he was riding the Ducati Panigale V2 and V4, marking his first serious circuit training session ahead of the upcoming MotoGP season.
This outing is particularly important as it represents Márquez’s first non-off-road training since his appearance at Ducati’s Campioni In Festa. Where he rode the Desmosedici GP in front of Ducati employees. The Valencia test underlined a clear message, Marc Márquez’s comeback plan is firmly on track.
Marc Márquez 2026 MotoGP – Valencia Test Highlights
The Valencia session saw Márquez working closely with Ducati Lenovo Team Manager Davide Tardozzi, focusing on rebuilding rhythm, confidence, and race fitness. Over two days, the Spanish rider logged extensive laps, testing both middleweight and superbike machinery to simulate varying race conditions and riding styles.
Unlike promotional appearances, this test carried real performance intent. The Aspar Circuit’s technical layout allowed Márquez to evaluate braking stability, corner entry feel, and physical endurance, all crucial elements after a long injury recovery.
For Ducati, the test also served as a controlled environment to assess Márquez’s adaptation process as the team builds towards the 2026 campaign.
Marc Márquez 2026 MotoGP – Panigale V2 and V4 in Action
During the test, Márquez rode two specially prepared machines:
- Ducati Panigale V2 MM93, unveiled in November with Márquez’s personal livery and ergonomic preferences
- Ducati Panigale V4 Márquez 2025 World Champion Replica, a collector’s edition celebrating his most recent title success
The use of both bikes allowed Márquez to fine-tune his riding inputs across different power characteristics. The V2 helped sharpen corner speed and flow, while the V4 focused on power delivery, braking loads, and physical stress. Especially, as these elements closely aligned with MotoGP demands.
From a MotoGazer perspective, this dual-bike approach highlights Ducati’s structured and data-driven preparation philosophy heading into 2026.
Road Ahead: Testing, Presentations and Sepang Focus
With Valencia completed, Márquez’s calendar now shifts to a packed build-up phase. Upcoming milestones include Campioni in Pista, Ducati’s official team presentation on January 19, and the highly anticipated Sepang MotoGP Test from February 3 to 5.
These sessions will be crucial in determining Márquez’s competitive baseline before the season begins. Early indicators from Valencia suggest positive momentum, both physically and mentally. Especially, as he targets a return to the front of the MotoGP grid.
Conclusion
Marc Márquez’s return to circuit training is more than just a routine test. Moreover, it is a calculated step in a carefully planned comeback. With Ducati’s full backing, structured testing, and a busy pre-season ahead. The Marc Márquez 2026 MotoGP campaign is already shaping up as one of the most closely watched stories in the paddock.
