Honda MotoGP team principal Alberto Puig expressed strong optimism following a successful early test of their 2026 bike in Malaysia, emphasizing the team’s goal
to win as soon as possible
. This ambition reflects Honda’s determination to return to the top of the MotoGP podium in the near future.
Encouraging Performance at Sepang Test
During the official Sepang test, rider Joan Mir recorded the fastest time on the second day, clocking 1:56.874, which was the fifth-best overall in the session. This demonstrated Honda’s improving competitiveness as they prepare for the upcoming season.
The team’s momentum comes after a strong finish to the 2025 MotoGP season, with Mir securing podium finishes in Japan and Malaysia. Additionally, Luca Marini showed potential for a podium at Mandalika before both he and Raul Fernandez collided mid-race, ending their chances.
Steady Progress in Machine Development
Alberto Puig highlighted that Honda’s advances this year have focused on meticulous, incremental upgrades rather than drastic changes. He stated,
“We are very pleased because we made big progress on the machine,”
noting improvements in several key areas that have enhanced the bike’s overall performance.
Puig added,
“The bike is working well, we are more happy now with the engine performance, the bike itself is also better, it’s lighter. We are pleased and the most important thing is that the rider is more happy.”
These refinements have helped improve both speed and handling, fostering confidence among the riders.
Significance of a Future Honda Win
A victory in the 2026 season would mark a milestone for Honda, representing back-to-back MotoGP season wins for the first time since Johann Zarco’s triumph at the French Grand Prix in 2018 and 2019. It would also be the team’s first dry weather victory since Alex Rins won the Grand Prix of the Americas in 2023.
For the Honda HRC Castrol outfit, a win by either Joan Mir or Luca Marini would be especially meaningful. It would end the team’s wait for a top podium finish since Marc Marquez’s win at the second Misano race in 2021, reinforcing the progress signaled in recent tests and races.
