Marc Márquez Left Andorra After Two Months, Prioritizing Home Over Tax Savings

MotoGP champion Marc Márquez has revealed that he spent just two consecutive months living in Andorra at age 22 before deciding to return to Spain, driven by a need to feel at home rather than financial considerations.

Speaking on La Sexta's *El Objetivo* with Ana Pastor, the 32-year-old Ducati rider from Cervera described buying a second home in the Principat around 2014. He used it as a base for his skis and gear while training at spots like AnyósPark. Márquez had visited Andorra regularly since age 15—first with his parents for shopping or race weekends at Pla de Sant Tirs, then on his own after getting his driver's license and entering MotoGP, staying overnight and skiing.

The decision to try a full winter there aligned with other riders moving to Andorra for its lower taxes. "When I was 22, I bought a house there for my skis and things. I thought I'd try staying longer one winter, since that's when many riders arrive and taxes are much lower," he recounted. After two months straight, he concluded: "Me, Spain, and home."

The plan sparked intense backlash in Spain in 2014 when his immigration paperwork became public. Márquez, however, insisted his exit had nothing to do with the controversy or tax strategies. It was a personal choice to stay close to family. "It was about feeling at home, and not economic calculations," he said. He has always paid his taxes in Spain and takes pride in the country: "Spain is one of the best places to live. I feel Catalan and Spanish."

Márquez stressed he was not making a point. "I'm not doing this to send any message—I do that on the bike," he added. "I'm aware of where taxes go and where they don't," but he follows his instincts. Though the residency bid was short-lived, he maintains close links to Andorra.