Alex Marquez will miss the MotoGP Qatar Grand Prix to undergo surgery on his right shoulder. The Gresini Ducati rider confirmed the decision after taking third place at Sepang, having started the Malaysian Grand Prix from pole position.

Marquez’s injury stems from a crash at the Catalan Grand Prix in May, when he broke his collarbone and also damaged his right shoulder. The problem continued after his return to racing, with bursitis developing in the shoulder. He said he had been using painkillers to compete, but they were no longer sufficient to control the discomfort.

Aiming for Portimao

The operation is scheduled for Monday in Madrid. The procedure will involve removing the sizeable plate fitted to his collarbone, while the shoulder inflammation will be treated by extracting fluid from the joint. Marquez described the plan as two procedures carried out together, with the shoulder inflammation now the main problem affecting him.

Marquez is targeting a return at the Portuguese Grand Prix in Portimao later this month. He said conversations with his doctors indicated that comeback was possible, particularly after the physical strain of consecutive races. He also mentioned Valencia as another target, while making clear that the immediate priority is to complete the surgery and return stronger.