Let's Talk MotoGP: Honda Must Be Very Careful, and Here's Why

Since the Hungarian Grand Prix and the Zarco "affair", Honda has been at the heart of all discussions among MotoGP fans.Today, the golden wing firm has just made two drivers official; Johann Zarco will remain at LCR until 2027, and Luca Marini at HRC in 2026. What do you think of these extensions? Analysis.

 

Good news or bad news?

 

Let's start immediately with Johann Zarco, the hottest issue of the moment.. I've seen a lot of people at LCR rejoicing over this extension, but I don't necessarily share the same opinion, without saying that I'm totally against it either. In fact, this story of the number 1 driver has taken on such proportions that it seems impossible to me to make any progress on the subject, as we know nothing about the two contracts – the previous and the new –, what is really happening with the parts used by the HRC and LCR (despite what Johann said), the difference in equipment, and, above all, the state of mind of Johann Zarco.

 

 

Is this such good news? On the one hand, if we remember why the Frenchman signed with LCR in the first place, that makes sense, because at this stage of his career, he preferred a team of this caliber. And it's gone very well with Lucio Cecchinello so far, so it makes perfect sense.

On the other hand, his interviews given at Balaton Park show that this may not be such good news. First, Zarco himself said "that he would like to be number 1, but [that it was] impossible at LCR ». Now that he has extended, it is difficult to interpret this statement positively… unless the terms of the contract have been altered, which is very likely – and highly desirable. Also, he had publicly revealed his wish to be part of the official team, which is, de facto, not the case. As you will have understood, it is too difficult for us to pronounce with certainty on the subject.

But let's take a step back with a few simple questions. Do I think Zarco's extension at Honda will benefit the Frenchman? Yes, in itself, he is very good on the RC213V and fully deserves to be part of such a project for several more years. Do I think this extension will benefit Honda? Yes, because Zarco remains one of the best tuners on the grid, as well as an excellent rider, certainly in the top 5-7 in terms of talent. So, from a macro point of view, I conclude that it is a good thing. I just hope that Honda will have the presence of mind to give him the best possible equipment, and I say this solely in the interest of the brand in MotoGP. In any case, the Japanese must be very careful about this, because they have seen that Zarco has the ability to express himself very clearly in the press.

 

Honda's Really Good Idea in MotoGP

 

This is not the only announcement of the day: we now know that Luca Marini will also be extended. He should therefore continue with Joan Mir in the factory team, since the latter is contractually linked to Honda until 2026. I think it's a great idea, because Marini is simply making one of the best campaigns this year., compared to where he was last year and his equipment, of course. The Italian, fantastic at Balaton Park, has only improved since joining Honda. It was certainly a long learning curve, but I love his very philosophical, calm, and methodical approach. It's paying off, since he's now faster than his double world champion teammate Joan Mir, in addition to being light years ahead in terms of consistency.

 

 

I might surprise you, but I find his season as successful as that of Johann Zarco, despite one victory and one podium lessHe is not as fast – and remains a less good driver overall – but his exemplary consistency allows him to be among the 42 points behind the Frenchman as he missed three rounds due to injury. Isn't that remarkable?

In just two years, Luca Marini has proven himself to be the perfect factory rider, with all that entails. He's discreet, skilled with the media, embodies Honda's image, gifted, consistent, resilient... since his arrival, which also coincides with that of Johann Zarco, the winged brand has progressed, there's no denying it. And I believe he is not unrelated to the brand's relative success this season.

I applaud Honda for this logical choice, as it would have been easy to make a much worse one, if you know what I mean. I've been very critical of Puig and his men for the recruitment, as they have made a string of blunders since Marc Marquez's injury in 2020. That said, I greatly appreciate such a prestigious brand recognizing the talent of Luca Marini, even if it does not express itself through outbursts.

 

 

An unknown and an uncertainty

 

In conclusion, I am very happy with these two maneuvers. Personally, I would have liked to see Zarco and Marini together in the factory team, because I like to see the best with the best opportunities and the best equipment. Too bad. So there remains an unknown, namely, the second LCR rider, and an uncertainty, in the person of Joan Mir. At LCR, Diogo Moreira is now being announced, and although he is very strong, probably more so than Somkiat Chantra, I find it difficult to see him as a future great. Then, for Joan Mir, my opinion has not changed after all this time : his selection seems to me incompatible with the desire to return to the forefront in a sustainable manner.

I'm curious to hear your thoughts on today's announcements. Tell me in the comments!

As a reminder, this article only reflects the thoughts of its author, and not of the entire editorial team.

 

 

Cover photo: Michelin Motorsport