LCR Honda’s MotoGP future uncertain after 2026 contract

LCR Honda has an option to extend its partnership with Honda beyond 2026 but faces an uncertain future.

Lucio Cecchinello of Italy and Castrol Honda LCR speaks with journalists in the box during the free practice session of the MotoGP Thailand Grand Prix at Chang International Circuit in Buriram, Thailand, on February 28, 2025. Photo by Mirco Lazzari/Getty Images

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

LCR has been a key part of Honda’s presence in MotoGP for nearly two decades, serving as the manufacturer’s satellite team since 2006. The team has played a crucial role in developing riders and contributing to Honda’s competitiveness in the premier class. However, with its current contract expiring at the end of the 2026 season, the future of this collaboration remains uncertain.

As of now, LCR is Honda’s only satellite team in MotoGP, a position it has held since Marc VDS exited the category at the end of 2018. With Honda facing increasing competition from European manufacturers like Ducati, KTM, and Aprilia, the role of its satellite team becomes even more significant in the development of its RC213V.

Option to extend the partnership with Honda

While the existing agreement is set to expire in two years, LCR team owner Lucio Cecchinello has revealed that an extension remains a possibility. Speaking to GPone, Cecchinello confirmed that the team holds an option to continue its collaboration with Honda beyond 2026.

"We also have an option with Honda for a collaboration in 2027," Cecchinello stated, suggesting that discussions about the team’s long-term future could intensify in the coming months.

Honda has been undergoing a major restructuring following several difficult seasons, particularly with the loss of Marc Márquez to Gresini Ducati for the 2024 season. The Japanese manufacturer is working to regain its competitive edge, and having a stable satellite structure like LCR is crucial to its MotoGP project.

LCR’s journey in MotoGP

LCR’s history in MotoGP dates back to 2006, when it stepped up to the premier class after competing in the 125cc and 250cc categories. Since then, the team has remained loyal to Honda, serving as a key partner in developing its satellite riders and refining the RC213V.

Throughout its time in MotoGP, LCR has provided opportunities for several talented riders. Over the years, the team has showcased Japanese and Asian riders linked to Honda’s racing program and its partnership with Idemitsu.

Somkiat Chantra of Thailand and Idemitsu Honda LCR rounds a bend during the MotoGP Thailand Grand Prix at Chang International Circuit in Buriram, Thailand, on March 2, 2025. Photo by Mirco Lazzari/Getty Images

Takaaki Nakagami, who raced for LCR from 2018 to 2024, was one of the longest-serving Japanese riders in MotoGP’s recent history. Now, Thai rider Somkiat Chantra has taken over his seat for the 2025 season, marking a new chapter in LCR’s development program for Asian talent.

The importance of LCR to Honda’s MotoGP program

For Honda, having a strong satellite team is essential to accelerating the development of its MotoGP project. European manufacturers have taken advantage of their satellite structures to gain additional data and refine their bikes at a faster pace. Ducati, in particular, has successfully used its satellite teams to groom young talent and collect crucial setup information.

Honda’s struggles in recent years have been well-documented, with the RC213V falling behind its rivals. The manufacturer is currently implementing a series of technical changes to improve its bike’s competitiveness, and retaining LCR could be an important factor in that process.

If LCR decides to extend its partnership with Honda, it could provide continuity for the brand’s long-term MotoGP strategy. However, with other manufacturers potentially looking to expand their presence on the grid, there is always the possibility that LCR could explore other options after 2026.

What lies ahead for LCR after 2026?

LCR Honda's French rider Johann Zarco rides during the free practice 1 session of the MotoGP Thailand Grand Prix at Buriram International Circuit in Buriram, Thailand, on February 28, 2025. Photo by Mohd Rasfan/AFP

As the 2025 and 2026 MotoGP seasons unfold, discussions about LCR’s future will likely intensify. The team’s decision will depend on multiple factors, including Honda’s competitiveness, the level of support it receives, and potential offers from other manufacturers.

If Honda can make significant strides in development and offer LCR a competitive package, the partnership may well continue beyond 2026. However, if performance issues persist, Cecchinello and his team could evaluate alternative options in search of better results.

For now, LCR remains committed to its role as Honda’s only satellite team, with its immediate focus on achieving strong performances in the upcoming seasons. Whether that collaboration continues beyond 2026 remains to be seen, but the next two years will be crucial in shaping LCR’s MotoGP future.