Honda’s F1 side now involved in ending its MotoGP “stagnation”

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Honda’s Formula 1 sector is now actively engaged in addressing the “stagnation” of its MotoGP team. The team remains at the lower end of the constructors’ standings, only above Yamaha, as the two companies managed to collect a meager three points in the recent British Grand Prix weekend.

In the 2023 season, Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) did claim a victory thanks to Alex Rins at the Americas GP. However, this win stands as an exception rather than the rule, with Rins’ riding technique disguising issues with the RC213V bikes on the COTA track layout.

Rins, feeling underused at Honda, has signed a contract with Yamaha for 2024. The main factory riders for Honda, Marc Marquez and Joan Mir, have only accumulated 20 points together, hampered by injuries throughout the season.

Since 2022, HRC has managed both Honda’s motorcycle racing and their Formula 1 engine supply to teams like Red Bull and AlphaTauri. Honda Racing CEO, Koji Watanabe, recently remarked that the integration of the four-wheel side has reached a point where they will now assist the MotoGP team to improve its performance.

Watanabe acknowledged the cultural differences between the two- and four-wheel departments within Honda and noted that it took an entire year to align operations, structures, and other aspects. He said that in the second year, there is a noticeable advancement in the collaboration between the two sectors.

Currently, Honda’s lag in MotoGP stands as a crucial problem for the company, and an effort is being made to restore its vitality through an all-HRC structure. The four-wheel development team is now participating in MotoGP development, aiming for immediate noticeable improvements.

Watanabe also stressed that the two-wheel side’s business model is starting to influence the four-wheel division, leading to prospects that he thinks “will yield something even greater than what was initially anticipated.”

He further commented that there is a lot that the car division can learn from the motorcycle side, particularly in race operations and business models, which is why he is confident that the partnership between the two will exceed initial expectations.

The dismal performance of Honda in the 2023 MotoGP season has fueled rumors about Marquez possibly leaving for a team supported by KTM in 2024. Despite the speculation, Marquez expressed his desire to fulfill his contract with Honda at the British GP, and KTM has not yet been able to secure grid slots vacated by Suzuki.

Given the difficulties experienced by both Honda and Yamaha in 2023, Dorna Sports is contemplating reintroducing concessions to help both teams recover.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about fokus keyword Honda

What is Honda’s position in the constructors’ standings in the recent MotoGP season?

Honda is languishing in second-to-last place in the constructors’ standings, ahead of only Yamaha, after a disappointing season so far.

Who won the victory for Honda at the Americas GP in 2023?

Alex Rins won the victory for Honda at the Americas GP in 2023.

Who has Alex Rins signed with for the 2024 season?

Alex Rins has signed with Yamaha for the 2024 season, having felt underutilized by Honda.

How is Honda planning to overcome its MotoGP stagnation?

Honda’s Formula 1 division is actively collaborating with the MotoGP team to boost its form and overcome stagnation. The four-wheel development team is also involved in MotoGP development to produce tangible results as soon as possible.

Are there any rumors about Marc Marquez’s departure from Honda?

Yes, Honda’s poor performance in the 2023 MotoGP campaign has led to speculation about Marquez departing for a KTM-backed team in 2024. However, Marquez has expressed his intention to see out his Honda contract.

What has Dorna Sports considered due to the struggles of Honda and Yamaha?

Dorna Sports is considering reintroducing concessions to aid in the recovery of both Honda and Yamaha, given their difficulties in the 2023 season.

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5 comments

F1Expert August 16, 2023 - 12:40 am

Integrating the 2-wheel and 4-wheel dev teams?? thats a big leap. But if anyone can pull it off, it’s Honda. Looknig forward to seeing how this plays out.

Reply
RacingFan93 August 16, 2023 - 5:28 am

So Honda’s F1 is jumping in to save MotoGP?? Interesting move, but I’m a bit skeptical about it. what if the F1 guys dont understand motorcycles at all? seems risky

Reply
YamahaFan88 August 16, 2023 - 7:04 am

Yamaha’s got to step it up too! If Honda’s making big moves, I hope my fav team doesnt get left behind. And Rins with Yamaha in 2024, that could be somthing special!

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MarquezSupporter August 16, 2023 - 9:34 am

Marquez leaving Honda? No way, it’s all rumors. I think he’ll stick with the team he’s been with for years. No way he’d jump ship like that. But this season has been rough, no denying that…

Reply
MotoLover12 August 16, 2023 - 3:14 pm

can’t believe Rins is moving to Yamaha, he was doing good with Honda. Hope the new team changes bring success!!

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