Overview

• Honda HRC confirmed it will part with Iker Lecuona after 2025, and Aruba.it Racing – Ducati announced he will race its new Panigale V4R in 2026.
• Alvaro Bautista was unveiled by the Barni Spark Racing Team for 2026, remaining on Ducati machinery and replacing Danilo Petrucci, who is moving to the factory BMW squad.
• Lecuona will partner championship contender Nicolò Bulega in Ducati’s works team, completing the manufacturer’s 2026 pairing.
• Ducati had decided earlier not to exercise Bautista’s option following a dip in results, a downturn he has linked to WorldSBK’s weight regulations.
• Industry reporting indicates Honda is targeting Moto2 frontrunner Jake Dixon for its 2026 works lineup, with further decisions on team composition still developing.