MotoGP experts predict the Italian Grand Prix, including Marc Marquez’s hopes.

The Catalan Grand Prix is ​​loaded with red flags Alex Marquez And Johann Zarko As both drivers continue to recover, serious accidents will force them out of the weekend at the Tuscany-based race.

on the other hand, Mark Marquez He is expected to return to Mugello following his serious crash at the French Grand Prix two rounds ago. Pending a medical examination on Thursday, the seven-time world champion hopes to continue his title defense with Ducati.

It was Marquez who claimed victory in both formats in last year’s race finale at Mugello, much to the dismay of the local fans. With this in mind, MotoGP News’ professional team of writers They have given their predictions for this year’s Italian Grand Prix.

Who is your pick for victory at Mugello?

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Which MotoGP rider will take pole position for the 2026 Italian Grand Prix?

David Comerford – Fabio di Giantantonio “What’s interesting is that Aprilia has only had one pole so far this year. The bike doesn’t look like it’s going to fit itself until Sunday. Accordingly, I’m going for the in-form Digia.”

Tyler Rowlinson – Francesco Bagnaia “In front of the home faithful, Ducati and Francesco Bagnaia will want to put on a good show. His performance has improved of late, and he is looking fast in training. This is a good chance to get back on top.”

Aditya Krishnamurthy – Marco Bezeci: “After extending his lead over Jorge Martin in the championship standings, Marco Bezcicchi will arrive at his home race full of confidence in the world to take another important victory.”

Ashley Hambly – Fabio di Giantantonio “The VR46 star has been Ducati’s most consistent rider by a mile this year, and the Italian powerhouse still seems to have an advantage over the other manufacturers. His one-lap pace is mega, so a third pole for 2026 could be on the way.”

Which MotoGP rider will win the 2026 Italian Grand Prix?

David Comerford – Marco Bezeci He struggled in Barcelona, ​​but I can see an unforgettable home win here. After two podiums in the lower classes, Bezcicci has never finished higher than fifth in MotoGP at Mugello, but he will have the bike to win this weekend.

Tyler Rowlinson – George Martin “Like Ducati, Aprilia will be looking for a good result on the field and Martin is probably starting to take advantage. Bezcicci is struggling in RS-GP and his team-mate is rising fast. I’m backing Martin to get his glory at Mugello, and perhaps lead the championship at the weekend.”

Aditya Krishnamurthy – Marco Bezeci A pole-topping start to the weekend for the Aprilia rider, who I expected to win the entire race as he dominated the rest of the grid despite some tough battles.

Ashley Hamby – Fabio Di Gianntonio: “That’s why I opted for Digia again in my pole prediction. I couldn’t see anyone matching Ducati’s pace at Mugello and the Italian rider is on a hot streak at the moment.”

How do you expect Marc Marquez to fare if he returns to the Italian GP?

Which MotoGP rider will be the biggest surprise at the 2026 Italian Grand Prix?

David Comerford – Maverick Vinales “It was a strong performance in Barcelona after coming back from injury and I could see a top-six result from anywhere. He could have had a platform here before the incident at Morbidelli last year.”

Tyler Rowlinson – Brad Binder “He needs to improve in form, and the Catalan GP was an encouraging result for the KTM rider. If he can keep up the pace, I don’t see why he can’t possibly challenge for the top five.”

Aditya Krishnamurthy – Raul Fernandez: “After the debacle with Jorge Martin and Ai Ogura’s performances in the last two races, I expect Fernandez to put in his best, if not his best, performance this year.”

Ashley Hamby – Diogo Moreira: “The Brazilian had a career-best finish in the premier class last season, which is slowly getting used to the big prototype. He was P9 last time, so I think he can reach the top six at Mugello.”

What is Marc Marquez’s ceiling if he is eligible to return at the 2026 Italian Grand Prix?

David Comerford: I don’t think we can avoid a podium, but I can’t see him winning. Marquez’s strength should start to come back now after that pesky collision is sorted, but it will take a few laps.

Tyler Rowlinson: “Marc Marquez’s main goal is to get through the race without any issues. If he’s physically fit, then mission accomplished. I don’t think performance and results will be at the top of the agenda at Mugello. I don’t think a top result is on the cards, though. I’d say P5 at the most.”

Aditya Krishnamurthy: “Top 5. Marquez, even in this reduced physical shape, is still one of the best riders in the world and I can see him finishing in the top five if he is relatively healthy, well rested and highly motivated.

Ashley Hambly: “With the way the Grands Prix have gone for him this season, I can’t imagine Marquez being anywhere near the front of the pack. Sunday’s long format race is demanding enough, let alone at Mugello.”