Speculation is growing that Jack Miller and Cal Crutchlow could team up under Honda for the 2026 World Superbikes season. This buzz follows the announcement that Toprak Razgatlioglu has signed with Pramac Yamaha for 2026, which means either Miller or Miguel Oliveira will have to leave the squad. Miller, whose contract with Pramac Yamaha ends this year, is the prime candidate to move on, possibly returning to Honda’s factory World Superbike team.
Reports from Sky Sport Italy suggest Honda is offering Miller a deal extending through 2027 and 2028, covering the years when the Australian rider will be 33 years old.
Cal Crutchlow’s Role and Possible Transition to Honda
Alongside Miller’s potential return, Cal Crutchlow could join the Honda World Superbike setup as a team manager. The British former Grand Prix winner retired from full-time racing in 2020 but remained involved as a MotoGP test rider for Yamaha. However, a hand injury early in 2024 limited Crutchlow’s riding duties, prompting Yamaha to bring in Andrea Dovizioso and Augusto Fernandez to support testing activities.
With Crutchlow’s future at Yamaha uncertain and considering the WorldSBK calendar is roughly half the length of MotoGP’s, the move to management in World Superbikes could suit him. Still, only Crutchlow can decide if taking up a managerial role appeals to him.
Honda’s Progress and Connections with Miller and Crutchlow
Under Honda’s recent leadership by Jose Ecamez, the brand has advanced its World Superbike project despite the CBR1000RR-R yet to secure a race win. Crutchlow’s long-standing friendship with Miller—dating back to their time together in the LCR Honda garage during Miller’s rookie MotoGP season in 2015—could have influenced Honda’s interest in bringing Miller back.
If Miller declines the offer, Honda is reportedly engaged in talks with two-time World Superbike Champion Alvaro Bautista to return to the Fireblade. Bautista confirmed at the Misano weekend that Ducati will not continue with him in 2026, leaving the rider’s future open.
Context of Rider Changes and Team Strategies
The entry of Toprak Razgatlioglu into Pramac Yamaha highlights the dynamic nature of team rosters ahead of the 2026 season. Miguel Oliveira and Miller face uncertainty due to roster limits, with Miller’s possible shift to Honda reflecting strategic moves by manufacturers to strengthen their World Superbike efforts. Meanwhile, Yamaha’s expanded and reshuffled test team emphasizes the changing roles and opportunities within MotoGP support roles.
Crutchlow’s potential new role and Miller’s return to Honda signify crucial developments for the Japanese factory’s competitiveness in World Superbikes, particularly as they seek to build on recent progress and achieve race victories.
