Let's talk MotoGP: Luca Marini just proved he's Honda's future

Every weekend has its hero. This time, it was Honda factory rider Luca Marini who undoubtedly stood out during the German Grand Prix. After suffering a serious injury, the Italian managed to return to his best form and proved, once again, that he is a vital driver in the Honda program.

From nowhere

At the end of May, I clearly remember announcing Luca Marini's injury. During the Suzuka 8 Hours practice, he took a huge volumeThe toll on the spot was extremely heavy. Dislocation of the left hip, ligament damage to the left knee, fractures to the sternum and left clavicle, and pneumothorax on the right side. I remember the comments perfectly; those of the public, but also of the observers. The majority expected a return for the end of the season, or, at worst, for the beginning of next year. Result: a month and a half later, he has just had his best race for Honda in MotoGP.

Luca Marini has 1,5 times more points than Joan Mir in the standings despite missing three races. Photo: HRC

Frankly, what he did commands respect, because he started very quietly on Friday. Then, on Saturday, in the wet, he managed to qualify 15th, which is not exceptional, but still two places ahead. his world champion teammate Joan MirThe sprint, which he finished in 16th place, was very complicated, and there was no doubt that the pain was greatly hampering him. But after yet another visit to the Clinica Mobile and some painkillers, he came through on Sunday.

I can hear his detractors here: yes, he's had his share of falls. To them, I'd first say that finishing races is the very essence of this sport. Fabio Di Giannantonio didn't manage it. Marco Bezzecchi didn't manage it. Johann Zarco, undisputed leader at Honda, did not make it.Marini, for his part, was able to master an extremely tricky track that did not forgive any mistakes, to complete the 30 laps.

Then, he didn't play the grocer, but then, not at all. He was part of the Ogura/Mir/Binder/Miller group, and was doing honorably. But in the first third of the race, he was rather behind. On the other hand, towards the end, when his rivals' tires began to deteriorate rapidly (the famous drop), he woke up. First with attacks on Brad Binder and Joan Mir. Of course, the latter fell, taken by Ai Ogura in the first corner. But I still want to point out that Mir was behind Marini at the time of his fall, and not really in contact what's more.

Luca Marini must be very careful in Brno, as we have seen in the past riders who come back from injury very well but suffer in their second outing. Photo: HRC

Marini's chase of Miller was, by far, the most interesting moment of the Grand Prix. We saw the Honda official take his right leg off the footrest in Turn 5, to relax. And despite everything, he managed to get it, thanks to a wonderful overtaking move in the penultimate corner. It's no secret, but all of Valentino Rossi's students excel in the art of overtaking. Thus, he finished sixth, his best result since joining the winged firm at the start of 2024. Hats off.

Honda must trust Luca Marini

What can we learn from this? Well, in my opinion, This means that Luca Marini must stay at Honda at all costs.. I was already convinced of this before, and I feared that his injury would keep him away from this handlebar, that it becomes the easy excuse to dump him and bring in Jorge Martin, back when it was fashionable.

Marini is a hard worker, who never complains, who has been constantly improving since the start of the 2024 season, largely – yes, largely – better than Joan Mir despite having one year less experience on the RC213V, who always shows unfailing calm and very consistent performance – the only rider without a Sunday finish outside the points this season –. He is the one Honda needs right now and I am very happy to see him at this level of performance. He made me proud to have always defended him this weekend.

I'm curious to know if you share my view regarding Luca Marini. Tell me in the comments!

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

A true warrior. Photo: HRC

Cover photo: MotoGP