Marco Bezzecchi
Honda are currently on an upward trajectory within the pecking order of MotoGP, and are reportedly eyeing three specific riders to take them into the premier class’s new era of regulations in 2027.
Long gone are the days of Marc Marquez’s dominance with the factory Honda team.
Since his last title feat with the Japanese constructor in 2019, they haven’t managed to finish higher than fourth place in the constructors’ standings, ending three of those seasons with the worst-performing bike on the grid.
However, the 2025 campaign seemed to be a turning point for the Asaka-based outfit’s woes. As a result, Honda now finds themselves in rank C of MotoGP’s concessions, marking the first time that a constructor has moved up a rank since the new system began in 2023.
- READ MORE: Mat Oxley explains why Honda were ‘desperate’ to move to a new MotoGP concessions tier in Valencia
Who should Honda sign for the 2027 MotoGP season?
Do you think it should be someone other than the riders in this list? Let us know in the comments below!
The three riders that Honda are ‘keen’ on signing for the 2027 MotoGP season
During a recent appearance on the Motorsport Republica podcast, MotoGP journalist Jack Appleyard was asked about Honda’s chances of returning to their former glory during the premier class’s new era of regulations in 2027.
As the most successful premier class outfit in history, Honda’s financial capabilities surpass those of their rivals on the grid, and Appleyard believes that is one of the main reasons why the Japanese constructor will be back on top.
He said, “For me, Honda would be my pick going into 2027. I mean, you’ve just seen the steps they’ve been making over the past two years, 18 months, even more so this year, what a step they took.
“And you feel that they’re only going in one direction. And like you say, they’ve got the finances to back it up.”
Then asked if they have a rider line-up capable of delivering a title to the Asaka-based giants, the MotoGP expert replied, “At the moment, I don’t think so.
“But I know for a fact they’re keen to go and poach one of them. I’d be shocked if one of Fabio Quartararo, Pedro Costa or Jorge Martin isn’t on a Honda for 2027.
“That’s their big target, to go out and get a world-class championship worthy rider to try and fight for the championship for them.”
- READ MORE: MotoGP fans are all in agreement as Honda tease their new 850cc ‘beast’ of an engine for 2027
Where will Honda finish in the 2027 MotoGP constructors’ championship?
Will they emerge as frontrunners? Or will their best days still be behind them? Comment below!
Honda are also interested in bringing Marc Marquez back into the fold for 2027
Given the astronomical success that Marquez achieved with the factory Honda team during his 11-year stint with them, a move back to Asaka would be a fitting way to end his career in the premier class.
The Spaniard won a total of 59 races, secured 64 pole positions and scored 101 podiums in the famous Repsol-branded overalls, which amounted to six world championships.
Marquez is reportedly open to a Honda return, but he has some conditions before he signs his name on the dotted line.
The competitiveness of Honda’s bike is the leading factor in whether or not he will return to his former team.
It’s clear that all Marquez is interested in is winning, so if they can provide him with a title-winning calibre of bike, then he would be more than happy to reunite with his ex-colleagues.
As mentioned by Appleyard, the financial power of Honda is another huge factor in the pull that the Japanese constructor have.
Legendary rider manager Carlo Pernat believes Ducati cannot compete with their on-track rivals at all in this department.
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