Marc Marquez says Assen is 'the last circuit I need to survive' as he targets 2026 MotoGP title

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MotoGP world champion Marc Marquez has consistently said he is struggling with his fitness in the current season, but two wins in the last two race weekends have seen him move back into contention to retain his title this season after some early difficulties.

'We are there' - Marquez admits he is back in championship contention

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Marquez won at Grand Prix Czechia last weekend in Brno, with his team-mate Francesco Bagnaia claiming the Sprint race win the day before.

Aprilia had been tipped to succeed in that round, but Marco Bezzecchi was banned from the full-length race after a confrontation with a marshal, and Jorge Martin had to serve two long-lap penalties.

With Bezzecchi struggling of late and Marquez’s good form since an operation to fix a broken screw in his shoulder, a lead of 102 points for the Italian has since been cut to 40.

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Marquez has now has back-to-back victories and has been tipped as the favourite for the title by TNT Sports pundit Neil Hodgson.

Speaking to MotoGP.com, Marquez said the race this weekend at Assen would be the last one before he could take time to get back to full fitness.

"I think, and I hope, that this is the last circuit that I need to survive. Then, from that point, I will try to do some good steps [with the healing right shoulder and arm]," Marquez said.

Highlights: Marquez claims outstanding victory at Grand Prix Czechia

Video credit: TNT Sports

"But Assen, even when I was fully fit, was a circuit where I struggle a bit. Let's see. We will start from FP1 and, step-by-step, understand where we can arrive. But of course, I need to be patient.

"Of course, when you win two races in a row, the motivation is increasing, but now it’s time to still thinking more than usual. So, this will help me."

Marquez has signed a two-year contract to remain with Ducati Lenovo, though team-mate Francesco Bagnaia will depart at the end of the season to sign with Aprilia.

His seat will be filled by KTM rider Pedro Acosta, who has long been expected to link up with Ducati’s factory team.

Marquez added that he was happy to see his compatriot arrive.

He said: "Pedro is one of the youngest talents and a very fast rider. So it’s a very good move from Ducati.

"But I will not go deeper [on that now] because we will have time in the winter time to speak about it, and especially because I have a huge respect to Pecco, that is my actual team-mate."

Discussing his own contract, he looked towards more success after landing his seventh MotoGP world title last season.

"Super happy to announce the renewal of my contract with Ducati for two more years," he continued.

"Of course, if I did that step, it means that about mental side, I feel ready [for another two years]. And about my physical condition, I feel better and better.

"I hope, and I wish, to continue in that progress and enjoy 2027 and 2028 together with Ducati Lenovo Team."

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