Honda is moving closer to securing a contract extension with Luca Marini, while also presenting a lucrative €4.5 million offer to emerging Moto2 talent Diogo Moreira. These moves aim to solidify Honda’s rider lineup ahead of key changes in the MotoGP landscape.
Marini Poised to Extend His Stay with Honda as Zarco’s Factory Promotion Fades
With Jorge Martin confirming that he will complete the final year of his Aprilia contract, Luca Marini’s future at Honda appears increasingly assured. This anticipated extension with the factory Honda team effectively blocks Johann Zarco from joining the HRC squad alongside Joan Mir.
Instead, the 2022 Le Mans winner Zarco is expected to continue with the LCR team, where he desires enhanced factory support. According to Sky Italia,
“Zarco’s contract expires at the end of 2025, but there is no doubt that he will renew with Honda,”
reflecting his intention to stay linked with Honda through LCR.
While there was speculation about Zarco’s potential promotion to Honda’s factory team to replace Marini, the latter’s near renewal with HRC diminishes this possibility. Nevertheless, Zarco’s future teammate line-up might change in 2026, depending on team decisions.
Honda Eyes Diogo Moreira as a Promising Addition to LCR and Factory Roster
Honda is actively targeting Moto2 standout Diogo Moreira to join their ranks as a factory rider in the near future. The Brazilian rider has received an advanced offer of a three-year deal worth €1.5 million annually. The first year would see him ride for LCR, with the subsequent two years at the factory team level, positioning him as Somkiat Chantra’s likely replacement on the second LCR motorcycle.
Sky Italia reports,
“Chantra hasn’t achieved his goals and is saying goodbye. His replacement is expected to come from Moto2: negotiations are advanced between HRC and Brazilian Diogo Moreira, who has been offered a three-year contract worth €1.5 million per year – the first season with LCR and the following two with the factory team.”
Moreira, aged 21, currently ranks fourth in the Moto2 championship. His season includes a landmark first Grand Prix victory at Assen, followed by a challenging crash in Germany, which resulted in him starting from the pit lane in Brno.
Honda’s Strategic Planning for Beyond 2026
Honda presently has no rider contracts secured past the end of 2026 and continues its pursuit to retain Jorge Martin for the 2027 season, marking the debut year for the new 850cc engines and Pirelli tires. These strategic negotiations showcase Honda’s effort to build a competitive and stable team as MotoGP evolves.
