In a bold declaration, HRC test rider Aleix Espargaro has set the stage for Honda’s ambitious trajectory in MotoGP, stating emphatically that “we have to be A.” This statement comes as Honda celebrates its first ascent from the MotoGP concession rank D to C, marking a significant milestone in their competitive journey. Achieving an A ranking is no small feat; it requires a manufacturer to secure at least 85 percent of the maximum constructors’ points over a year—a benchmark that has eluded all but Ducati, who has dominated the championship for the last six seasons.
Honda’s leap to rank C is particularly notable as they become the first manufacturer to climb the concessions ladder since the system was implemented at the beginning of 2024. Their achievement is underscored by surpassing the critical 35 percent threshold, a requirement met by only KTM and Aprilia as well. Meanwhile, Yamaha remains the only manufacturer languishing in category D, still benefiting from full concessions, which include ongoing engine development and private testing with race riders.
Espargaro’s optimism stems from a pivotal moment during the Valencia season finale, where Luca Marini clinched the seventh place necessary to elevate Honda’s standing. “Honda said, and they repeated, ‘we had to put one bike in P7’, we didn’t hide it,” Espargaro remarked, revealing the pressure felt by the team. His enthusiasm was palpable as he praised Marini’s tenacity throughout the season, especially after a challenging recovery from injury. “I’m very happy that it was Luca who made it, because I think he’s been strong this season. He worked very hard after the injury, and his commitment was amazing.”
In the battle for supremacy within Honda, Johann Zarco emerged as the top rider in the world championship, narrowly besting Marini by six points to finish twelfth overall. Espargaro highlighted the positives from the season’s closing stages, emphasizing Honda’s consistency with at least one bike competing near the top each weekend. “The good thing is that [in the closing stages of the season] we had at least one bike near the top every weekend. It could be Joan, Luca, or Zarco sometimes. So it means the bike is working well,” he noted, acknowledging the high level of competition that defines the current MotoGP landscape.
Reflecting on Honda’s relentless development efforts, Espargaro revealed the extensive testing regime that has characterized their season. “It’s amazing how much we have worked,” he exclaimed, detailing his rigorous schedule that included numerous testing days in Malaysia and Europe before heading to Valencia for a wildcard entry. His remarks underscore Honda’s commitment to reclaiming its competitive edge.
When asked about Ducati’s lack of concessions and its impact on their development, Espargaro provided insight into how Honda has evolved the RCV throughout the season. The breadth of testing and material they’ve utilized has been staggering. “From my experience, the tons of material and hundreds of laps that I did in testing, how much we changed the bike during these last six months has been amazing,” he stated. He emphasized that the opportunity to test extensively has been crucial, allowing Honda to introduce three significant engine updates during the season. “If Joan and Luca were fighting today with the engine from the beginning of the season… not even top ten,” he concluded.
Looking ahead, Honda is poised to join the ranks of Ducati, KTM, and Aprilia in the upcoming MotoGP engine freeze starting with the 2026 season. As the new 850cc era looms on the horizon for 2027, the stakes are higher than ever for Honda, and Espargaro’s unwavering confidence could inspire a resurgence that fans and competitors alike will be watching closely.
