Marc Marquez's former right-hand man, Santi Hernandez, has cast doubt on the possibility of a reunion with the seven-time world champion at Honda. In an interview with Mundo Deportivo, Hernandez expressed his belief that they won't work together again at HRC, despite their successful partnership in Moto2 and MotoGP with Honda.
The pair's collaboration was a remarkable one, winning six world titles in seven years. However, Hernandez did not join Marquez when he moved to the Gresini Ducati squad for 2024. This decision was influenced by Marquez's unwillingness to sign a multi-year deal with Ducati, which prevented him from bringing Hernandez along.
Hernandez's perspective on their relationship is one of deep friendship and mutual respect. He emphasized the importance of their bond, stating, 'I’m taking away a friendship with him, which for me is the most important thing. The day will come when he retired, the day will come when I retire, and that friendship will remain.'
The current situation for Marquez is one of uncertainty. He is reportedly close to signing a new deal to remain with Ducati's factory team in 2027, and his 2026 season has been impacted by a serious shoulder injury. This has led to questions about his longevity in MotoGP, with Marquez himself acknowledging that his career is likely nearing its end.
Hernandez, who joined the Crash.net team in 2024, offers a unique insight into Marquez's career. He reflects on their time together, saying, 'We built a really great team, starting from scratch. We laughed a lot; he was one of us. I watched Marc grow up.'
Despite the speculation, Hernandez's opinion on a potential return to Honda is clear. He states, 'I don’t think so. He’s at Ducati, he’s happy, he’s found his smile again.' This sentiment highlights the complexity of the sport and the personal dynamics that can influence a rider's career choices.
In summary, the relationship between Marc Marquez and Santi Hernandez is a fascinating one, marked by success, friendship, and the challenges of the racing world. As Marquez's career continues to evolve, the question of where he will race in the future remains open, leaving fans and industry experts alike to speculate on the possibilities.
