Finally! It was simply the oldest transfer rumor ever; Quartararo's move to Honda had been announced even before the start of the 2026 winter tests in Sepang. Six months later, it's finally official, and, naturally, it raises questions.
This article will normally be quite short. because I already covered the split between Quartararo and Yamaha in a previous articleToday, I'm going to focus directly on his future prospects as a Honda factory rider.
Obvious risks
Let's get straight to the point. For me, signing Quartararo at this precise moment is not without risk; I fully stand by that thought.Yes, indeed, Yamaha hasn't exactly shone in recent years and has even distinguished itself with its questionable technical choices (like the proliferation of projects in 2023-2024), while Quartararo was still at it, putting in the effort. However, this season, He gives the impression of having completely lost control..
He often appears demotivated, losing interest. So, yes, that's understandable given his situation, but the fact remains that the image he projects to his future employer, Honda, is still quite tarnished. Let's not kid ourselves out of chauvinism: "El Diablo," Since 2025, he has been making a name for himself as much for his impressive on-track performances as for his scathing comments about his own machine.. We think that Honda, much like Ferrari, wouldn't appreciate this kind of comment. But I believe Quartararo is perfectly capable of displaying the same language and body language if the future RCV doesn't suit him. These beliefs about the inflexible mindset of the Japanese seem outdated to me.
First, teams are increasingly influenced by European culture. Second, there are no longer any great figures embodying authority, no Enzo Ferrari, no Colin Chapman. Who would order Quartararo to shut up at Honda? Alberto Puig? His influence will wane by 2027. Davide Brivio? Perhaps, but what would that be worth? The future team manager Kawase I don't know if he has the legitimacy. The Honda board, directly from Japan? Today, the riders are bigger than the brands; going on a collision course with one of them (see the Martin affair) could backfire. They've acquired a lot more power compared to the 1970s and 1980s.
Unless a clause in his contract explicitly forbids him from speaking negatively about his equipment – which was clearly not the case for Johann Zarco or Joan Mir – I don't see why Quartararo would change his tune if things are going badly.Let's talk a little about performance.
Is Quartararo a sure bet for Honda?
You can't anticipate his future performances without mentioning his future machine. What do I think of the Honda 850cc? As with the KTM, this part will be based entirely on feelingI could be completely wrong, because nothing currently allows us to imagine the future hierarchy of manufacturers.
My opinion on Honda is this: the winged brand will take advantage of these new regulations to improve, yes, but it won't be going for the absolute front-row start. I like the momentum Honda has been riding in recent years. I really appreciated the club's openness to Europe, demonstrated by the recruitment of Romano Albesiano as technical director.I also appreciated the appointment of Mikihiko Kawase as team manager, replacing Puig. The recruitment of Aleix Espargaro as a test rider seemed extremely relevant to me, and I love Johann Zarco's role at LCR. Unlike KTM, where I struggle to find good news even when I look hard, Honda is showing a clear desire to progress. Add to that the company's phenomenal budget, and you have a recipe for success.
So why shouldn't Honda be aiming high up the field? Well, in my opinion, they're starting from too far back. A very interesting interview with Luca Marini revealed all the differences between a hybrid team like Honda, with one foot in Japan and the other in Europe, and a 100% European team, like Aprilia or Ducati. At Honda, parts take an incredibly long time to produce and deliver; we're talking several months for a swingarm.This had already caused problems in mid-2025 when Johann Zarco, despite being the best rider, didn't have the latest upgrades, while at Ducati, all the riders on the track can already opt for the 2026 aero package – chosen by Di Giannantonio at the last minute on Sunday at the Sachsenring (!). The second major issue is aerodynamics, a science neglected by Honda until 2024, according to Marini. Honda is still lagging behind in this area.
Since I don't imagine a total upheaval of the hierarchy, I see Honda getting closer without dominating, also thanks to its Quartararo/Alonso duo being much stronger than the one currently in place, while waiting for confirmation that Alonso will be involved and not Moreira. Not enough to trouble Aprilia and Ducati, but ahead of KTM and YamahaPerhaps they will prove me wrong and dominate the top four positions every time they go out, it's a possibility; This is only a prediction..
Quid And what about Quartararo in all this? Well, we know his strengths on the bike, which far outweigh his weaknesses. If his bike is good, he'll be able to dominate and take pole positions. “El Diablo” remains a sure bet who can, of course, shine on the track and then some. However, watch out for rookie David Alonso if the pairing is confirmed, as he's a true generational talent. The Colombian could definitely give him a run for his money.
Conclusion
In summary, Honda has made a great signing with one of the five best riders MotoGP available on the pitch, and clearly demonstrates its ambition with this potentially explosive and enticing duo. Quartararo, who is set to receive a hefty paycheck – and good for him – is also making a smart move by joining a project with strong potential. even though the factory Ducati and Aprilia handlebars seemed to me to be more interesting optionsNow, was he even considered by these teams? Not sure.
Do you, like me, think that Honda will make progress in 2027? 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: Quartararo Instagram