Marco Bezzecchi
David Alonso was set to join Honda’s factory line-up in 2027, but his inconsistent performances in Moto2 could now lead to Diogo Moreira getting the seat instead.
The Colombian rider is hot property in the MotoGP paddock, having dominated Moto3 in 2024 and had a strong first season in Moto2 last year, finishing ninth with one win and five podiums.
Amidst the chaos of the MotoGP rider market, it was reported that Alonso would be joining Honda in 2027, getting the factory seat that Ducati could not offer him. However, the Japanese manufacturer are now having doubts.
David Alonso’s ‘inconsistent’ Moto2 performances could see him replace Diogo Moreira at LCR in 2027
Everything looked in place for Honda in 2027, with Alonso partnering with Fabio Quartararo at HRC and Moreira staying with Johann Zarco at LCR. However, that could now be set to change.
According to a report from Motorpassion Moto, Alonso’s ‘inconsistent’ performances in Moto2 are ‘leading HRC to consider a change’ and put him in LCR instead.
Some seismic moves have been made in MotoGP for 2027! What has been the most shocking rider transfer?
The 20-year-old has yet to score a podium in 2026, currently sitting sixth in the standings, 71.5 points behind championship leader Manu Gonzalez.
His form has left Honda considering putting Alonso in the satellite team instead of the factory outfit. He has signed a contract with Honda, but the team he will race with is yet to be decided.
Moreira also has a direct contract with Honda, and the Japanese giants are afraid of ‘hindering his progress’. Therefore, they could now swap the two riders and give the Brazilian the seat next to Quartararo at HRC.
READ MORE: Who is Moto2 sensation David Alonso? Everything you need to know
Honda could even ‘terminate’ David Alonso’s contract
Alonso is ‘pending confirmation’ to join LCR in 2027. It could be assumed, therefore, that if he is to improve his form in Moto2, then he could perhaps keep his HRC seat.
But Honda hold Moreira in high regard and want to ensure that his development continues smoothly. They could decide to promote him regardless of Alonso’s results, but if the Colombian does not improve, he could lose his contract altogether.
Predict the order of the Honda riders in the 2026 MotoGP standings
The report notes that Honda have a ‘clause’ that allows them to ‘terminate’ Alonso’s contract and financially compensate him. Alonso’s salary demands to Ducati would suggest that he is on a high salary with Honda.
However, that would be an ‘extreme measure’, and the Japanese manufacturer have ‘no intention’ of taking such an action with Alonso.
Receive racing news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
