Alex Márquez signs KTM deal as Gresini bids emotional farewell

**Alex Márquez** confirmed on 6 July that he will join Red Bull KTM from the 2027 MotoGP season, prompting Gresini Racing’s Nadia Padovani to issue an emotional farewell statement.

Red Bull KTM announced the signing of the 27‑year‑old Spaniard, the younger brother of double champion Marc Márquez. The deal locks Alex into the factory team beginning in 2027, with Fabio Di Giannantonio named as his teammate for the 2027 campaign. The announcement came just days after Gresini Racing revealed its 2027 line‑up-Joan Mir and Daniel Holgado on Ducati machinery-and officially said goodbye to Alex and fellow Spaniard Fermin Aldeguer.

Team principal Padovani addressed Alex, the 2025 world‑championship runner‑up, with a personal note: “Alex, it’s really hard for me to let you go. Together, we’ve shared emotions, growth and moments that I will carry in my heart forever.” She added, “Before we say goodbye, there is one more chapter we must write together. Let’s tackle it with the determination that has always set us apart.” The quote underscores the close bond built over four seasons, during which Alex secured four Grand Prix victories for Gresini.

Gresini posted a striking image of Alex in orange apparel, handcuffed inside a mock prison cell, with Italian graffiti on the wall reading “Is Orange the new Blue?”. The visual plays on the team’s orange livery and hints at his upcoming switch to KTM’s orange‑blue colour scheme. Such creative teasers have become a hallmark of Gresini’s pre‑race media, designed to spark conversation ahead of each Grand Prix.

Alex entered Gresini in 2023 and quickly became a key figure, finishing second in the 2025 championship behind his brother. This season, however, has been tougher; after ten races he sits ninth in the standings and is still recovering from a heavy crash in Barcelona. A two‑year stay at Gresini gives him time to rebuild confidence before the 2027 transition, where he will race alongside Di Giannantonio on KTM’s factory bike-a platform that could reignite his podium form.

With Alex and Aldeguer departing, Gresini will focus on Mir, the 2020 champion, and Holgado, who will pilot the light‑blue Ducati Desmosedici in 2027. The team’s ability to attract top talent suggests it remains a competitive force despite losing a high‑profile rider. Padovani’s promise of “one more chapter” hints at a final push in 2026, aiming to finish the season strong before the roster overhaul.

Social media lit up with mixed emotions. Supporters praised Alex’s achievements at Gresini, while others expressed disappointment at his early exit from the team. The visual of the prison scene sparked debate, with some calling it a bold statement and others deeming it overly dramatic. Regardless, the buzz keeps both Gresini and KTM in the spotlight as the 2026 season unfolds.