The Sepang tests have kicked off a new season, but also the rumor mill. While Fabio Quartararo is the subject of speculation regarding a possible transfer to Honda, Alberto Puig, the team manager, assures his support for his current riders while keeping the door open for the irresistible 2021 world champion.
The Sepang Tests: A First Glimpse
The first public and official meeting of the year brought together all the teams and media in Sepang this week for three days of testing in preparation for the championship that will begin at the end of the month. This crucial moment took place in the wake of major revelations regarding rider transfers, in a context where nearly the entire grid is nearing the end of their contracts. An electric atmosphere, like a sprint race, where each team tries to get ahead of the others.
Fabio Quartararo at the Center of Discussions
The name Fabio Quartararo has been one of the most circulated in recent days, since Motorsport.com revealed the Frenchman’s intention to leave Yamaha for Honda. Although the rider has indicated that he has not signed anything yet, he admitted to having had contacts with the Japanese manufacturer. One could almost hear the sweet sound of engines preparing to start, but for now, the situation remains unclear.
Alberto Puig: A Cautious Discourse
Speaking this Thursday, Alberto Puig, head of the HRC factory team, adopted a rather typical stance for the Japanese manufacturer. While showing respect for the current riders, he did not deny the growing interest that Quartararo represents for Honda. “For the moment, I can tell you that everyone is talking to everyone,” he stated when the official MotoGP site asked him if he was confident about signing the French rider. An evasive response, like a motorcycle taking a turn without leaning too much.
He continued by stating that “all manufacturers have talked to all riders, and vice versa. At this time of year… It is true that this process always happens earlier! But regarding what you say, nothing is clear. The only thing that is clear for Honda at the moment is that we must support our current riders, and that is what we will do.” A statement that resembles a mantra: support the troops while waiting to see what new alliances will emerge.
Alberto Puig, team manager of the Honda HRC team
Honda’s Priorities for 2027
When asked what Honda is particularly looking for in its riders for 2027, Alberto Puig explained: “I think the number one priority for a rider… It’s a difficult combination, but you have to find speed and intelligence. If you find a rider who is super fast and smart, then you have it, you don’t need to look any further!” A bit like looking for a needle in a haystack, except this needle must also be able to take turns at full speed.
A Season Full of Uncertainties
The factory Honda team currently fields Joan Mir and Luca Marini, both of whom have stated that these discussions are very premature. When the competition resumes, will it be fair to say that they will have to fight to defend their place? “I think that’s the case for many riders, not just them,” replies Alberto Puig. Indeed, uncertainty reigns in the paddock: “For many riders, contracts end this year. But honestly, I believe the entire paddock is in the same situation, not just the riders. Obviously, when you don’t have a contract for the next season, you have to fight.”
Quartararo’s Misadventures
The Sepang test concluded today in the absence of Fabio Quartararo, who returned to Europe to treat a finger he broke on Tuesday in a crash. His current team director, Massimo Meregalli, clarified that discussions with the Frenchman had to be postponed: “We are just waiting because we have always said that discussions could start after this test, but we have to push them to the next one.” A setback that could change the game.
An Uncertain Future for Yamaha
A certain fatalism seems to reign at Yamaha. The racing program director, Paolo Pavesio, even stated earlier this week that “if Fabio decides to do something else, he will have to [accept it],” emphasizing that a mutual desire to remain associated is essential to prolong a union that is entering its eighth year. A relationship that could resemble a couple in crisis: despite the feelings, each begins to consider other horizons.
As teams prepare for the start of the season, eyes are turned toward possible new alliances. The rider dance has begun, and every move could redefine the future of the teams. It remains to be seen whether Fabio Quartararo will be one of the key pieces of this grand chessboard.
