MotoGP rookie Diogo Moreira could be in line for a promotion from LCR Honda to the factory HRC team for the 2027 season. The Brazilian, who won the Moto2 title in 2025, has impressed in the opening half of his premier-class rookie campaign, scoring points in 9 of the first 11 races with a best finish of sixth in Hungary.
Moreira stated he expects clarity on his future by the British Grand Prix at Silverstone. "I don't know!" he said when asked about his future before leaving the Sachsenring. "For sure, we will talk during this summer break, so in the end let's see in Silverstone. I think there will be something 100%."
Honda is now the only manufacturer yet to announce its 2027 factory team line-up. Fabio Quartararo is destined to fill one of the HRC seats, but the identity of his future teammate remains unclear. The leading candidate is Moreira, whose strong rookie season has boosted his stock, while Moto2 frontrunner David Alonso — initially tipped for the role — could end up at LCR alongside Johann Zarco if Moreira moves up.
The Brazilian is already under a multi-year MotoGP contract with Honda. His charge through the field at the Sachsenring — from 18th on the grid following a penalty to 11th at the finish — further showcased his potential. "Starting from the back it is super-difficult to overtake here and I overheated the tyre, so in the end we survived well," he commented.
Luca Marini, currently Honda's top rider in the world championship (tenth), is expected to join Tech3 KTM next season, while Joan Mir, who has already signed for Gresini Ducati, crashed out at Sachsenring. This leaves room for a complete Honda line-up reshuffle ahead of the new 850cc/Pirelli era beginning in 2027.
Moreira has surprised even his own team: "I think we are surprised, all the team. Because this is just race eleven, so we are already there. We need to keep working until the end." HRC's final decision is expected by the Silverstone GP in August.
Sources
- Crash.net: "Let's see in Silverstone" - Diogo Moreira on factory Honda MotoGP chance (https://www.crash.net/motogp/news/1101093/1/lets-see-silverstone-diogo-moreira-factory-honda-motogp-chance)
