Marco Bezzecchi
MotoGP manufacturers are preparing to make huge moves on the rider market for the 2027 season, but Honda are by far the most ambitious.
The Japanese giants are looking to return to their past glory, having regressed dramatically since Marc Marquez’s crash at Jerez in 2020. Honda made significant progress in 2025, reaching C rank in the concessions system and winning their first race since 2023 at Le Mans.
But the problem for Honda has been not having a rider of the same calibre as Marquez since he left in 2023. Johann Zarco, who won his home race last year, was the highest-ranked rider in 12th.
What is your boldest prediction for the 2027 MotoGP rider market? 🔮
Luca Marini was consistently in the points but did not score a podium. Joan Mir grabbed two podiums but crashed too frequently and Somkiat Chantra was dropped from MotoGP after his debut season, scoring just seven points.
They need a top rider in their line-up, and Honda know it. They have already been linked with several big names, and such moves are set to cause chaos in the MotoGP rider market.
All four of their targets have the talent to win championships, but which one stands out as their best option for the 2027 season?
Pedro Acosta – Honda’s best option for 2027
Since trying to break his KTM contract in 2025, Pedro Acosta has been linked with the Japanese giants. The Spaniard is dissatisfied in Austria, and rumours are already suggesting that he is set to leave come 2027.
Acosta has his ‘sights’ on Ducati and Honda as he looks for the fastest bike on the grid. He is not interested in high wages, which could be an advantage for the latter, considering their sizeable budget over their rivals.
Of all their targets, Acosta is the youngest by some distance and therefore has the most potential. He is yet to win in the premier class, but if Honda can give him a competitive bike, the 21-year-old will be a title contender, making him their best option for 2027.
Marc Marquez – A sensational, but unlikely return to Honda
With his contract expiring at the end of 2026, Marquez will naturally be in demand, and he has already been linked with a return to Honda.
The Ant of Cevera has hinted at his intentions to stay at Ducati, given the incredible success he had with the team in 2025. However, Marquez is not ruling out a return to Honda, but he will not do so out of ‘nostalgia’ or a fairytale end to his career.
Marquez will only return to Honda if he can win with their bike, which he will not know until after he signs with them and rides their 2027 challenger. The 32-year-old might be better off staying where he is at Ducati.
READ MORE: Everything to know about Marc Marquez from net worth to girlfriend
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!
Fabio Quartararo – Honda must tread with caution
Fabio Quartararo is a top target for Honda as he expresses his frustrations at Yamaha. The Frenchman is out of patience with the Iwata outfit’s lack of performance, and could be bound for their Japanese rivals.
Honda are preparing a giant offer for Quartararo, who has shown that he can be a force at the front. His five pole positions on the YZR-M1 in 2025 are evidence of that.
However, his impatience could be a hindrance to Honda. Quartararo ‘twisted’ the DNA of Yamaha’s machine with his constant complaints, and it could happen in Asaka and disrupt the harmony that they have worked so hard to rebuild.
READ MORE: Everything to know about Fabio Quartararo from net worth to career stats
Jorge Martin – Honda’s primary target in 2025 should now be down their list
Jorge Martin was Honda’s preferred destination when he tried to find a way out of his Aprilia contract. Dorna intervened and prevented a deal for 2026, but the two parties are remaining in contact.
Honda have made a ‘very serious’ offer to Martin for 2027, but it would be a risky move. The Spaniard is coming off an injury-riddled 2025 season and there is no guarantee that he will return to form in 2026.
Of course, as a former world champion, he would be a welcome addition and could help propel Honda up the order. But given Martin’s injury woes, he probably is not as attractive an option as the other three on this list.
Receive racing news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
