BRADL SUGGESTS MARQUEZ COULD RETIRE AFTER A 10TH WORLD TITLE

Marc Márquez could consider retiring after winning a tenth world championship, according to former Honda test rider and TV analyst Stefan Bradl. The speculation followed Márquez’s second place in the Doha Grand Prix, a result Speedweek described as a tactical masterclass that left him close to clinching the title.

At the next round in Portimão, the 33-year-old would secure the championship early if he finishes the sprint ahead of rival Jorge Martín and scores two more points than him. That would give Márquez his tenth world crown and put him ahead of Valentino Rossi in the title count.

Bradl, who worked alongside Márquez for years at Honda, said the Spaniard’s decision could depend on how he feels after reaching that milestone. “The question is whether Marc will be at peace with himself,” Bradl said during ServusTV’s coverage. He added that if Márquez wins the title and surpasses Rossi, his instinct was that the rider might decide: “Okay, that’s it,” and leave the sport while at the top.

Bradl also noted how rare it is for athletes to retire at their peak: “There aren’t many athletes who have managed to step away at the height of their success.” His comments raise the possibility of a major change for Ducati. Márquez’s departure would end the anticipated team-mate contest with Pedro Acosta next year and leave the Italian manufacturer facing a difficult situation.