Marc Marquez shoulder injury has sidelined the seven-time MotoGP world champion just days after clinching his latest title. Ducati confirmed on Monday that the Spanish rider suffered a fracture and ligament damage to his right shoulder following a crash at the Indonesian Grand Prix, ruling him out of the next two races in Australia and Malaysia. Fortunately, no surgery will be required, but Marquez will remain off the track until at least November.
The accident occurred when Aprilia rider Marco Bezzecchi collided with the rear of Marquez’s Ducati, sending both riders tumbling into the gravel at high speed. Spectators watched in concern as Marquez, visibly in pain, clutched his right shoulder before being assisted off the track.
Ducati confirms extent of injury
In an official statement, Ducati explained that Marquez “suffered a fracture at the base of the coracoid process and a ligament injury to his right shoulder.” Medical examinations confirmed that the injury is unrelated to his previous shoulder fractures from the 2020 Spanish Grand Prix at Jerez, where he endured multiple surgeries and months of rehabilitation.
“Clinical and radiological assessments have ruled out any connection with previous injuries and confirmed the absence of significant bone displacement,” Ducati said. The team added that while Marquez’s recovery will be closely monitored, there is optimism that he could return before the season finale.
A setback after a championship triumph
The timing of the Marc Marquez shoulder injury is especially unfortunate, coming just a week after he secured his seventh MotoGP world title at the Japanese Grand Prix on September 28. His championship win capped a remarkable comeback season for the 31-year-old rider, who had spent years battling injuries and inconsistent form since 2020.
Despite the setback, Marquez remains optimistic about finishing the season on a high note. “My goal is to be back before the end of the season, but without rushing things beyond the doctors’ recommendations,” he said in a statement. “Both my personal and the team’s main goals have been achieved, so now the priority is to recover properly and return at 100%.”
Missed races and possible return
The injury means Marquez will skip the Australian Grand Prix at Phillip Island and the Malaysian Grand Prix at Sepang — two critical stops in the final stretch of the MotoGP calendar. Ducati has not yet confirmed who will replace Marquez for these rounds, though speculation within the paddock points toward a reserve or test rider stepping in temporarily.
Marquez is tentatively expected to return for the Portuguese Grand Prix from November 7-9 or the season-ending Valencia Grand Prix a week later. His participation will depend on medical clearance and his physical recovery over the next few weeks.
A familiar battle with injuries
For Marquez, injuries have been a recurring challenge throughout his storied career. The 2020 shoulder fracture nearly derailed his MotoGP journey, leading to multiple surgeries and forcing him to miss most of that season. His resilience and determination, however, saw him make a triumphant comeback in subsequent years — culminating in his latest title.
This latest Marc Marquez shoulder injury reignites discussions about the physical toll MotoGP places on its riders. High-speed crashes are common, and even minor collisions can have lasting consequences due to the forces involved. Yet, despite the dangers, Marquez remains one of the sport’s fiercest competitors, known for his aggressive riding style and fearless overtakes.
Ducati’s confidence in recovery
Ducati expressed confidence that Marquez will return stronger than ever, emphasizing that the injury was less severe than initially feared. “We expect a full recovery and are confident Marc will be back on the bike before the season ends,” a team representative said.
The team’s priority now is to ensure Marquez’s rehabilitation progresses smoothly without setbacks. Physiotherapy, muscle strengthening, and gradual range-of-motion exercises will form the core of his recovery plan.
Fans and MotoGP community react
News of the injury sparked an outpouring of support across social media, with fans and fellow riders sending their best wishes. The hashtag #GetWellSoonMarc trended on X (formerly Twitter) shortly after Ducati’s announcement. Many expressed relief that surgery was not required, noting that Marquez’s history of shoulder issues made the incident particularly concerning.
MotoGP commentators also highlighted how Marquez’s absence could impact the remainder of the season. With the championship already secured, attention now turns to how Ducati manages his recovery and whether the team can maintain momentum without its lead rider.
Looking ahead
If Marquez does return for the Portuguese or Valencia Grands Prix, it would mark a symbolic finish to a turbulent but ultimately successful season. His ability to overcome yet another injury would reinforce his reputation as one of MotoGP’s toughest competitors.
In the meantime, his focus remains on rest, rehabilitation, and recovery — a familiar but frustrating process for the decorated rider. As the MotoGP world waits for updates, one thing is certain: Marc Marquez’s shoulder injury may have paused his season, but it won’t stop his determination to dominate again once he’s back in the saddle.
Source: Al-Jazeera
