This season, Honda is showing promising progress by extending contracts with Luca Marini and Johann Zarco, successfully securing three riders for the 2026 race lineup, which offers a clearer vision for the team’s future direction.
Since Johann Zarco clinched the victory at the French GP, Honda’s overall performance may not yet match that of the European manufacturers, but its movements in the rider market continue to draw significant attention. Jorge Martin once considered leaving Aprilia, sparking a lively discussion in the market, but ultimately decided to stay for the benefit of the team. Against this backdrop, media outlets like motorsport.com recently reported that Honda is set to extend contracts with Luca Marini and Zarco, gearing up for the technical regulations overhaul in 2026.
After several weeks of negotiations, Honda officially announced on September 1, Taiwan time, that they have reached an agreement to extend contracts with Marini and Zarco. According to media reports, Marini has signed a short one-year extension, while Zarco has secured a two-year contract to continue racing with the satellite team LCR.
In collaboration with Honda, Marini has shown remarkable consistency and actively engages in communication with the team. Despite missing three races due to a testing incident at the Suzuka 8 Hours, he returned at the German GP, finishing sixth. Furthermore, he secured fourth place in the sprint race at the Hungarian GP and took fifth in the main event, adding some impressive highlights to his season.
Zarco, the oldest competitor, faced a slump earlier this season in June, but his remarkable performances in securing the victory at the French GP and a runner-up finish at the British GP truly showcase his skill. Given Zarco’s age and the lineup of Honda, extending his contract with LCR seems to be a mutually beneficial choice for both parties.
As Joan Mir’s contract comes to an end in 2026, Honda has confirmed its team lineup for next year through this announcement, though there remains uncertainty regarding Zarco’s teammate. According to media reports, it seems that Honda will not extend the contract of Thai rider Somkiat Chantra, who only managed to score points at the Assen TT this season. At the same time, initial agreements have been reached regarding Moto2 championship contender Diogo Moreira, but Chantra’s position is under scrutiny due to Idemitsu’s sponsorship, indicating that future developments will need closer observation.
