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Since Marc Marquez ' s departure from Honda at the end of 2023 , Honda HRC has had to significantly shift its mentality , facing a challenging 2024 as the manufacturer ambitiously looks to the future . Like their fellow Japanese manufacturer Yamaha , Honda has been dethroned from its top position in recent years due to the formidable resurgence of European manufacturers . However , Honda HRC is far from defeated . Determined to reclaim their standing , the 2020 World Champion Joan Mir , alongside Luca Marini , Johann Zarco , and Thailand ’ s Somkiat Chantra , are working intensely to refine their strategies and improve results . Their collective efforts culminated in a best finish of eighth place by Zarco at Buriram , indicating a positive trajectory despite the stiff competition .
Behind the scenes , significant changes are underway ; Honda has enlisted former Aprilia technical director Romano Albesiano , who held that role at the Noale brand since 2013 , replacing Gigi Dall ’ Igna who moved to Ducati . Albesiano takes over from Ken Kawauchi , who transitions to the test team , which also welcomes a new member . Takaaki Nakagami stays within the Honda ecosystem and is joined by former GP winner Aleix Espargaro . Having two former Aprilia team members , Espargaro and Albesiano , may be crucial as part of the efforts to steer Honda HRC back to competitiveness . They have been conducting private tests in Thailand , leaving no stone unturned in preparation for 2025 , which will also feature a fresh livery .
HONDA HRC , REELING FROM RECENT SETBACKS , ENLISTS 2020 WORLD CHAMPION JOAN MIR AND FORMER APRILIA TECH DIRECTOR ROMANO ALBESIANO , AIMING TO RECAPTURE THEIR LEADING STATUS IN MOTOGP .
Official Programme Circuit Of The Americas