Overview

• HRC re-signed Luca Marini for 2026, keeping the factory line-up unchanged with Joan Mir already contracted through next season.
• LCR announced Johann Zarco’s two-year extension to the end of 2027 on works-spec Honda machinery with factory support.
• Marini’s improved 2025 form—highlighted by fifth at Balaton Park—followed a return from injuries sustained in a Suzuka 8 Hours test crash.
• The second LCR seat for 2026 remains open, with reports linking Moto2 frontrunner Diogo Moreira as the likely choice.
• Honda was unable to secure Jorge Martin from Aprilia for 2026, leaving scope to pursue higher-profile options for the 2027 850cc era.