The rumors had been circulating since the summer, and now it's official: Diogo Moreira, one of Moto2's brightest talents, will make his MotoGP debut in 2026 with the LCR Honda Team, on a three-year factory contract. At just 20 years old, the young Brazilian is becoming the new face of Honda's revival, alongside Johann Zarco, and under the direct technical supervision of HRC.
This transfer is not the result of chance: Marc Marquez himself played a key role in the decision to MoreiraThe Brazilian confirmed that he had a long discussion with the world champion before signing:
« I spoke with Marc, who always helped me. First when I arrived in Spain. Then, during the World Championship. And I hope it continues like this. " he said before adding: " jI asked him several questions about the specific aspects of my choice. Marquez spent ten years at Honda, so there was no better advice than his."
While Moreira was already convinced by Honda, Marquez, who won six titles with them between 2013 and 2019, gave him the last word: “ For Marc, of all the options presented to me, this was the right one. I made it clear that I wanted to go to Honda, and Marc confirmed that my choice was the right one.. " And he ends: « I only spoke to Marc MarquezI've often spoken to him about my career and my future. I think it will be nice to run alongside him. »
The friendship between the two pilots goes back several years, and the choice of Honda is part of a desire to combine youth and experience, while giving the Japanese brand a more ambitious and international image.
Currently second in the Moto2 championship, nine points behind Manu Gonzalez, Moreira calmly prepares for his rise. He runs with the number 10, but this one is already taken in MotoGP by Luca Marini, his future famous teammate.
« I already know my number for next year, but it's a secret " he said with a smile. " It will be a Brazilian number, so that's the key »
Diogo Moreira: " I have three years ahead of me, so I have to stay calm. »
Everything suggests that he could opt for number 4, that of his veteran compatriot Alex Barros, the greatest Brazilian rider in the history of MotoGP, author of seven victories in the premier class.
Aware of the scale of the challenge, Moreira keep a cool head:
« It's a different world. You have to understand the bike and the category. Honda is moving forward, and I want to be a part of itI have three years ahead of me, so I have to stay calm. »
He also spoke of his eagerness to race in front of his home crowd at the Brazilian Grand Prix, the second round of the 2026 calendar: “ It's going to be a crazy weekend! All my family and friends will be there »
After several difficult seasons, Honda seems to be banking on a new generation of drivers. With Zarco, Moreira and a technical program led by Roman Albesian et Aleix Espargaró in the test team, the brand wants to accelerate its return to the forefront.
