Fabio Quartararo's future is more than uncertain. Even before the Sepang tests had begun, a very reliable source claimed that "El Diablo" would join the factory Honda team in 2027. While this hasn't been officially denied by Quartararo himself, his manager Tom Maubant, as well as...Alberto puigThe HRC team manager said that nothing has been signed yet. The saga is far from over, then, as Puig recently brought it up again in a new interview.
When questioned after the winter tests, Alberto Puig reaffirmed that everything was still to be done. “Everyone is in contact with everyone else.” All manufacturers are in discussions with all drivers, and vice versa.That's normal at this time of year, although I have the impression that it's starting earlier and earlier. Nothing is clear at the moment, except that we must support our current drivers. And we will." he was responding to journalists from speedweek in a very… political tone.
However, he still affirmed his interest in the French world champion. "Honda has not yet defined its program for 2027. But Fabio is a fantastic rider." he continued. This transfer window, which is coming earlier and earlier, promises to be explosive.
Regarding the profile of the ideal candidate to join the factory team, Puig has drawn up a sort of composite sketch of Fabio Quartararo. "It's about finding the right balance between intelligence and speed." If you find an extremely fast and intelligent pilot, there's no need to look any further." he asserted. The arrival of the Frenchman would therefore mean that at least one of the two current factory riders would have to find a ride elsewhere. For the moment, Puig has not chosen between Mir and Marini, knowing that neither of them might continue with Honda in MotoGP. "Many drivers are gambling with their future right now." he concluded on this point.
Do you think Honda will actually sign Fabio Quartararo? Tell us in the comments!
Cover photo: Michelin Motorsport
