MotoGP Doctor Emphasizes Severity of Marc Marquez's Injury, Cautions Against Premature Return

MotoGP’s official doctor, Angel Charte, has provided a sobering update on the condition of Marc Marquez, emphasizing the gravity of the shoulder injury that has sidelined the eight-time world champion for the remainder of the 2024 season and cautioning against any premature return to racing that could jeopardize his career.

Marquez sustained the injury during the opening lap of the Mandalika race last month, following contact with Aprilia rider Marco Bezzecchi. The incident necessitated surgery on his right shoulder, an area already compromised by a previous serious injury sustained at Jerez in 2020.

Following the successful operation, Marquez has been prescribed a four-week period of complete arm immobilization before commencing rehabilitation. This timeline effectively rules him out of all remaining races this season, including the post-season test at Valencia, a crucial opportunity for riders to adapt to new machinery and settings ahead of the following year.

Dr. Charte, in his first public statement on Marquez’s condition in several weeks, underscored the severity of the situation, explaining that the Ducati rider requires extended recovery time due to the pre-existing damage to his shoulder. The Jerez crash of 2020, which resulted in a fractured humerus, has left the area particularly vulnerable, making the current injury more complex and requiring a more cautious approach to rehabilitation.

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"Marquez has done what he had to do, and his injury is not an easy one," Dr. Charte told the Spanish newspaper AS. "It’s a serious injury because that arm has been badly affected after four operations. I think he has to come back when he’s 100%, as he himself has said. You have to let the body regenerate."

Despite the concerns surrounding the shoulder, Dr. Charte clarified that the humerus, which was fractured in the Jerez crash, has not been directly impacted by the Indonesian incident. However, the surgical team did address a bent screw in the humerus during the recent operation, indicating the ongoing need for vigilance and careful management of the area. Additionally, Dr. Charte highlighted the significance of the coracoid bone, another area requiring careful attention during the recovery process.

"The previous injury hasn’t been affected at all," he explained. "They only saw that there was a bent screw in the humerus and that was repaired as well. And the coracoid has its history. It may seem like nothing, but it’s an important bone."

The medical team’s primary focus is to ensure a full and complete recovery for Marquez, prioritizing long-term health and career longevity over a hasty return to the track. Dr. Charte emphasized that Marquez’s decision to prioritize recovery is the correct one, given the potential risks associated with rushing back too soon.

"It’s not that it’s more or less serious, but rather that the recovery has to be done more calmly. The stance he has taken is the right one and is what I would have taken," Dr. Charte stated.

Marquez, who joined the Ducati team this season, has had a mixed campaign thus far. While he has shown flashes of his former brilliance, securing several podium finishes and demonstrating impressive pace, he has also struggled with consistency and adapting to the new machine. The injury sustained in Mandalika represents a significant setback, halting his progress and forcing him to miss the remainder of the season.

The timing of the injury is particularly unfortunate for Marquez, as he was beginning to find his rhythm with the Ducati and was considered a potential contender for race wins in the remaining rounds. His absence will undoubtedly be felt by the team, which will now have to rely on its other riders to challenge for podiums and race victories.

Looking ahead, Marquez will be unable to ride a MotoGP bike until the start of pre-season testing in February 2026, a significant period of inactivity that will require a dedicated and focused rehabilitation program. Dr. Charte cautioned that attempting to return to racing any earlier could have severe consequences, potentially jeopardizing Marquez’s long-term career prospects.

"Emotionally, he’s doing great because he’s done his homework," said Charte. "He’ll come to Valencia as a tourist and he’s earned this break because he’s a guy who’s had an exceptional season."

The decision to sit out the remainder of the season and focus on recovery is a testament to Marquez’s maturity and understanding of the long-term implications of his injury. While the desire to return to racing is undoubtedly strong, he recognizes the importance of prioritizing his health and ensuring that he is fully fit before returning to the demands of MotoGP competition.

"In his case, coming back earlier would have been risking it for nothing, and that’s not worth it. He would have jeopardized his career by returning prematurely," Dr. Charte concluded.

Marquez’s career has been marked by both incredible success and significant setbacks due to injury. The eight-time world champion has overcome numerous challenges throughout his career, demonstrating remarkable resilience and determination. This latest injury represents another obstacle in his path, but one that he appears determined to overcome with the same unwavering focus and commitment.

The MotoGP community will be eagerly awaiting updates on Marquez’s progress as he embarks on his rehabilitation journey. His return to racing in 2026 is highly anticipated, and fans around the world will be hoping to see him back at his best, challenging for race wins and world championships.

In the meantime, the focus remains on ensuring a full and complete recovery, allowing Marquez to return to the track when he is 100% fit and ready to compete at the highest level. The medical team, along with Marquez himself, are committed to taking a cautious and measured approach, prioritizing long-term health and career longevity over any short-term gains.

The absence of Marquez from the remaining races of the 2024 season will undoubtedly have an impact on the championship standings. With several riders vying for the title, his absence could open the door for other contenders to capitalize and gain valuable points.

The MotoGP season continues with upcoming races in various locations around the world, each presenting unique challenges and opportunities for the riders and teams. The competition remains fierce, with several manufacturers and riders capable of challenging for race wins and podium finishes.

As the season progresses, the focus will remain on the championship battle and the ongoing development of the MotoGP machines. The sport continues to evolve, with advancements in technology and aerodynamics constantly pushing the boundaries of performance.

The 2024 season has already been filled with drama and excitement, and the remaining races promise to deliver even more thrilling action as the riders battle for supremacy on the world stage. While the absence of Marc Marquez is a significant loss, the sport remains as competitive and captivating as ever.