The MotoGP transfer market saga for 2026 has just taken a major turn. Jorge Martin, long tipped to join Honda, has finally chosen to remain loyal to Aprilia. This reversal puts a serious dent in HRC's rebuilding strategy, which aimed to relaunch its project around the Spanish rider, current world champion. Behind this decision, the influence of Dorna boss Carmelo Ezpeleta appears to have been decisive in convincing Martin to honor his initial contract with Noale.
Honda, which had prudently promised not to short-circuit current contracts, had to back down. The director of Aprilia, Massimo rivola, had warned: there was no question of letting go Martin without a fight. As a result, the exit clause negotiated in 2024 remained a dead letter.
This refusal reshuffles the cards for Honda, which must now rethink its future. Johann zarco, excellent since the start of the season, is about to extend. Luca marini, brilliant at the Sachsenring, has still not renewed his contract. And Somkiat Chantra, despite its regularity, seems to be in the hot seat.
Fabio Quartararo, Honda's ticking time bomb?
But the real bomb could come from fabio quartararo according to rumor. Clearly tired of the broken promises of Yamaha , the Frenchman suggests that he might be looking for a new challenge. Oriol Puigdemont, a well-informed journalist, does not rule out that HRC might turn to him: " Honda won't recruit Martin, but there's another contender... "
With Ducati also on the lookout, a transfer of Quarterly toward Honda would have the appearance of a shock on the market - and of humiliation for Yamaha The French driver, champion in 2021, remains one of the most talented on the grid. In ideal conditions, he claims to be able to compete with Marc Marquez. And with an RC213V in progress, this unexpected marriage could well make sparks fly in MotoGP in 2026.
