Overview
- Honda sits on 266 manufacturers’ points after 20 rounds, roughly 36% of the season’s total so far.
- Scoring at least 19 more points in Portugal and Valencia would promote Honda to Group C and end several D‑rank benefits for next year.
- Moving up would bring an engine development freeze for 2026, fewer engines, a reduced aero update allocation, restricted testing and fewer test tyres.
- The on-track rebound includes Johann Zarco’s wet French GP win plus podiums at Motegi and Sepang, with measured top speeds rising to 338.5 km/h in Malaysia.
- Riders say progress remains uneven, as Joan Mir urges consistency due to instability and grip issues while Luca Marini highlights braking, corner entry and aero gains.