The LCR Honda team officially introduced its new liveries for the 2026 MotoGP season, showcasing the entry of rookie Diogo Moreira alongside seasoned rider Johann Zarco. This pairing marks both a fresh chapter and continuity for the team as it prepares for the next year’s world championship.
Along with Moreira’s debut comes a change in sponsorship, as Honda Pro, the Japanese manufacturer’s official oil brand, takes over as title sponsor for Moreira’s bike. This branding shift replaces IDEMITSU, which previously supported riders in the same garage spot, including Takaaki Nakagami and Somkiat Chantra.
Distinctive Color Schemes Link to Factory and Heritage
Moreira’s machine sports a sleek red, white, and dark blue paint scheme, echoing Honda factory colors, while black and gold GOD55 Sports sponsorship decorates the belly pan and winglets. This design has been used before on HRC’s factory test team during wildcard appearances, signaling the strong factory connection.
The positioning of Pro Honda as the main sponsor coincides with Moreira’s impressive credentials: he is the reigning Moto2 world champion and the first Brazilian Grand Prix winner. The significance is amplified as the Brazilian Grand Prix makes a return to the calendar this year at the Goiânia International Racetrack Ayrton Senna.
Moreira Joins an Elite Group of Novices on the Grid
Moreira is one of only two rookies entering MotoGP in 2026, alongside three-time WorldSBK champion Toprak Razgatlioglu, who is joining Pramac Racing Yamaha. LCR Honda signed Moreira on a two-year contract, indicating a commitment to his long-term development at the top level.
Zarco’s Castrol-Sponsored Livery Continues Tradition
Meanwhile, Johann Zarco returns on his RC213V bearing a striking Castrol-sponsored livery that remains predominantly white, with the iconic Castrol green complemented by touches of factory Honda red and dark blue. Zarco’s performances last year energized fans, including a memorable win at Le Mans in front of a record crowd and a second-place finish at the British Grand Prix at Silverstone.
In addition, Zarco played a key role in Honda’s victory at the Suzuka 8-Hour endurance race in Japan later in the 2025 season. Despite a challenging finish to the MotoGP season amid technical improvements from factory team rivals, Zarco ended the year as the highest-placed Honda rider in 12th position.
Commitment to Equality in Technical Enhancements
Zarco’s existing contract with LCR Honda runs through at least 2027 and reportedly includes a clause ensuring he receives the same technical equipment as the factory team. This agreement aims to keep him competitive as development progresses.
I was the first rider to kick off the LCR journey, which is not just my dream, but also the place I call home,
said LCR Honda owner Lucio Cecchinello.
Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of watching various riders evolve, each one leaving their mark with impressive results and unforgettable moments.
For 2026, I am incredibly proud to have Brazilian rider Diogo Moreira on board, fighting with the Pro Honda LCR team. He has consistently shown his exceptional ability to adapt to any bike, and his dedication, work ethic, and personality are a perfect fit for the values we uphold at LCR.
I am really proud to have Johann Zarco on the team, fighting and defending the colours of Castrol Honda LCR. The experience Johann has gathered over the years is a great contribution to our results, and over the past years with him, we’ve built a strong bond with a common goal and a united synchrony. 2026 marks LCR’s 30th anniversary. Since 1996, we’ve earned 133 podiums, 41 wins, and 36 pole positions. As Team Principal, I cannot wait to see those numbers grow. We are fully committed and motivated to fight for it.
Testing Milestones and Season Outlook
The upcoming official MotoGP test at Sepang is scheduled for February 3-5. Moreira arrives prepared, having already completed three days of track action during the Shakedown test. This early experience will be vital for the rookie adapting to the highest level of motorcycle racing.
The combined experience of Johann Zarco and fresh talent Diogo Moreira, supported by LCR Honda’s technical investments and new sponsorship partnerships, sets a determined tone heading into the 2026 season. With the return of the Brazilian Grand Prix and LCR’s 30th anniversary, this year promises to be one of both celebration and intense competition.
