Honda Extends Luca Marini’s MotoGP Deal Until 2026

Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) has finally given clarity about the future of Luca Marini in the MotoGP World Championship. After doubts over his continuity with the factory squad, Honda officially announced that Marini will continue to race for Repsol Honda until the end of the MotoGP 2026 season. This confirmation came in early September 2025, just a few days before the Catalunya Grand Prix.

The decision is part of Honda’s mid-term strategy to face the new MotoGP regulations that will take effect in 2027. By extending Marini’s contract, HRC ensures continuity within the factory squad while giving the Italian rider more time to adapt and contribute to the development of the RC213V.

According to reports, the extension adds one more year, pushing his original deal from expiring in 2025 to running through 2026 (Autosport, September 1).

Marini’s Performance with Honda

Since joining Honda in 2024, Marini has faced big challenges. The RC213V he rides has lagged behind main rivals like Ducati, KTM, and Aprilia. However, Marini has shown great dedication in helping the team understand the bike’s weaknesses and actively providing feedback to Japanese engineers.

Although podium results have not come consistently, Marini’s performance has been considered promising. He managed to finish inside the top ten several times and became one of the most stable Honda riders throughout the 2024 season and the first half of 2025.

HRC values Marini’s contributions not only in race results but also in technical development. This is the main reason why Honda continues to trust him for the next two seasons (McNews, September 1).

Strategic Impact for Honda

Extending Marini’s contract is not merely an individual decision but part of Honda’s broader strategy to overcome a difficult period. Since Marc Marquez left in 2023, Honda lost an icon and technical leader. The presence of Marini, known for his discipline and communication, is expected to become the long-term foundation of the factory team.

In addition, Honda has also confirmed Johann Zarco will stay with LCR Honda until 2027. The combination of both riders is expected to provide stability in the development program. Zarco brings experience, while Marini, being younger, is seen as an ideal partner to deliver technical feedback to Honda (News.GP, September 1).

With these two riders, HRC has a clear roadmap: to rebuild the RC213V and make it competitive for the new 2027 regulations. Therefore, extending Marini’s contract until 2026 signals that Honda is ensuring continuity during the transition (AMCN, September 1).

Marini’s Reaction

In an interview after the announcement, Luca Marini expressed pride in remaining part of the legendary factory team. He said the trust given by Honda is a huge motivation to keep working hard.

Marini also emphasized that his goal is not only to stay but to bring Honda back into contention for victories. For him, developing the bike is not easy, but close cooperation between riders, European technicians, and Japanese engineers will deliver positive results soon.

He added that this decision provides him with personal stability. With his contract secure until 2026, Marini can focus more on track performance rather than worrying about his career future.

Honda’s Situation in MotoGP 2025

The MotoGP 2025 season has been a challenging year for Honda. While still struggling to catch up with Ducati’s dominance and KTM’s resurgence, some positive developments have appeared. The latest RC213V is seen as more stable under braking and with better corner exit traction. However, acceleration and top speed remain major issues.

Honda has also undergone a significant restructuring of its technical department by hiring several European engineers, including former Ducati staff. This shows their seriousness in reducing the gap. In that context, retaining Marini makes sense since he is already familiar with the new direction of the team’s development.

Team’s Support

Honda team manager Alberto Puig stressed that extending Marini’s contract was not an emotional move but a decision based on careful analysis of his contributions. Puig said Marini has an excellent work ethic and always provides detailed feedback during test sessions.

For Honda, a rider with such qualities is invaluable, especially as the team is rebuilding. Puig is optimistic that Marini can be one of the key pillars to bring Honda back to winning ways in the coming seasons.

The Future of Honda and Marini

With the contract now running until 2026, Marini has two full seasons to prove himself. Honda’s realistic target is to close the gap with Ducati before the new regulations take effect in 2027.

If successful, Marini may extend his deal further and be part of Honda’s new era. However, if significant progress is not made, Honda could reassess its rider lineup before the major regulatory shift.

Whatever the outcome, this new contract is a pivotal point in Marini’s career. He now carries a big responsibility, not just for himself but also for the revival of one of the most historic teams in MotoGP.

The confirmation of Luca Marini’s contract extension until MotoGP 2026 underlines Honda’s full trust in the Italian’s ability and dedication. It also highlights HRC’s long-term strategy as they prepare for the major regulatory transition in 2027.

Despite current struggles, Honda is working to build a strong foundation by ensuring rider stability. The combination of Marini and Johann Zarco is expected to provide crucial technical feedback for the development of the RC213V.

With renewed motivation, Marini must now prove that Honda’s trust is not misplaced. The next two seasons will be decisive in shaping both his career and Honda’s future in MotoGP.