The eight-time world champion announced after the Japanese GP that he would be leaving Honda with a year left on his contract, before Gresini confirmed his appointment during the Indonesian GP for 2024.
In an exclusive interview with Autosport, Marquez opens up on his emotions at leaving Honda and what he is looking for with his Ducati move.
Autosport: How have you been living these last few days now that your future for 2024 is clear?
Marc Marquez: "A weight has been lifted off my shoulders. When you have to make an important decision, until you take the step you have doubts. Even after I have taken it, I keep asking myself questions. These questions will be resolved over time, when, for example, I get on the Ducati for the first time."
AS: If you had to go through the whole process again, would you do anything differently?
MM: "No, not at all. In fact, it took a long time because in my mind I wanted to stay with Honda, but my priority at that time was the sporting aspect. That has always been the driving force of my career, above the salary and everything that goes on here."
AS: That Wednesday morning when you called Japan to say you were leaving, what reaction did you get on the other end of the phone?
MM: "They expected it. Honda was aware at all times that it was a possibility. That's the good thing about having such a trusting relationship that has been so successful, it allows you to talk things through directly at all times. I didn't hide anything and they knew the possibilities that were on the table."
Source: Autosport