Ducati Lenovo Team Targets Strong Start to Overseas MotoGP Tour at Motegi

Marc Márquez and Francesco Bagnaia arrive at one of Ducati’s most successful circuits, aiming to fight for victory as the 2026 MotoGP season enters its crucial overseas stretch.

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The MotoGP World Championship heads to Japan this weekend for the first of five consecutive overseas rounds, with the iconic Mobility Resort Motegi hosting the opening race of the international tour. For Ducati Lenovo Team, the Japanese Grand Prix carries special significance, as the circuit has been the backdrop to some of the manufacturer’s greatest MotoGP achievements.

Motegi has long been considered one of Ducati’s strongest venues, with the Desmosedici GP consistently delivering impressive performances over the years. The Italian manufacturer has claimed nine premier-class victories at the circuit, beginning with Loris Capirossi’s memorable three consecutive wins from 2005. More recently, Francesco “Pecco” Bagnaia dominated the Japanese Grand Prix by taking back-to-back victories in 2024 and 2025.

The venue also holds a special place in Ducati’s history for another reason. It was at Motegi where Ducati celebrated two MotoGP Riders’ World Championship titles, first with Casey Stoner in 2007 and later with Marc Márquez in 2025, making the circuit one of the most memorable stops on the MotoGP calendar for the Borgo Panigale manufacturer.

Marc Márquez Ready to Challenge at a Familiar Venue

Marc Márquez heads to Japan looking to return to the fight for victory after a demanding weekend at the Austrian Grand Prix. Despite facing challenges throughout the Spielberg round, the eight-time world champion still secured second place in the Sprint Race and maintained second place in the championship standings.

With Motegi traditionally suiting the strengths of the Ducati Desmosedici GP, Márquez is optimistic about maximising the bike’s potential and delivering a competitive weekend.

“The 2025 Japanese GP represents an indelible memory that creates a special bond between me and the Ducati Lenovo Team. That memory, along with the incredible affection of the Japanese fans, gives me an extra boost for the weekend,” said Márquez.

“Motegi is a track I really enjoy: the goal is to do well and be competitive.”

Francesco Bagnaia Returns to One of His Favourite Circuits

Francesco Bagnaia arrives in Japan full of confidence despite a challenging outing in Austria. The Italian rider showed encouraging progress by consistently finishing inside the points and believes the Japanese Grand Prix offers another opportunity to continue improving.

Often regarded as one of the strongest riders at Motegi in recent seasons, Bagnaia has enjoyed remarkable success at the circuit, winning the previous two editions. Those victories make the Japanese venue one of his favourite stops on the MotoGP calendar.

“I love Japan, and every year I’m really happy to come back and race here,” said Bagnaia.

“Motegi is where I took my last win, and that’s a positive thought to keep in mind heading into the weekend. In Austria we struggled, but we still managed to get back in the points. Now we have to keep working hard to regain the best riding feeling.”

Ducati Looks to Continue Its Motegi Dominance

As the MotoGP championship enters a crucial phase with five consecutive overseas races, Ducati Lenovo Team will be aiming to make a strong statement in Japan. With the Desmosedici GP’s proven record at Motegi and two riders eager to challenge at the front, the Italian manufacturer will be among the favourites to fight for victory once again.

The Japanese Grand Prix represents not only the beginning of the overseas tour but also an important opportunity for Ducati to build momentum before the championship battle intensifies in the remaining rounds.