Quartararo to join Honda for 2027-2028 MotoGP seasons

Fabio Quartararo, the 2021 MotoGP world champion, is set to join the factory Honda team for the 2027 and 2028 seasons. The move marks a significant shift for the French rider, who will leave Yamaha after eight years. Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) announced the signing, viewing Quartararo as a key figure in their bid to return to the top of motorcycle racing.

Quartararo's transfer to Honda had been rumored earlier in the year, with his departure from Yamaha confirmed weeks prior. The 27-year-old rider from Nice will aim to contend for the championship title again with the Japanese manufacturer. His move aligns with the introduction of new technical regulations in 2027, which will reduce motorcycle engine capacity from 1000cc to 850cc. This change could potentially alter the current dominance of European manufacturers like Ducati and Aprilia.

Honda, currently undergoing a rebuilding phase after Marc Marquez's departure in 2024, is counting on Quartararo, nicknamed "El Diablo," to revitalize their team. Quartararo rose to prominence after joining MotoGP in 2019, becoming the first French rider to win a world championship in the premier class. Despite his early success, his performance has seen a decline in recent seasons, though he finished second in the championship in 2022.

In a related announcement, Honda also confirmed the signing of David Alonso, the 2024 Moto3 world champion, for the upcoming seasons. The team has not yet specified whether Alonso will join Quartararo in the factory team or race for the LCR satellite team alongside Johann Zarco. Diogo Moreira, currently with LCR, is also a candidate for a promotion to the factory squad.

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Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) with pride announces the signing of Fabio Quartararo for the 2027 and 2028 MotoGP World Championship seasons. Quartararo will compete for the factory Honda HRC team, and his arrival coincides with the start of the 850cc era in MotoGP.