Diogo Moreira Awaits Honda's 2027 Factory Team Decision
LCR Honda rider Diogo Moreira is performing strongly in his rookie MotoGP season, but Honda has yet to decide if he or newly signed David Alonso will join
Honda has not revealed whether Diogo Moreira or David Alonso will secure the factory seat alongside Fabio Quartararo for the 2027 MotoGP season. The Brazilian rookie, currently racing for the satellite LCR Honda team, believes his consistent top-ten performances have earned him the promotion.
Honda Racing Corporation officially announced the signing of David Alonso to a multi-year contract on July 21. Alonso, born in Spain but competing under a Colombian passport, joined the world championship four years ago. The manufacturer's announcement did not specify which team the young talent would be placed with for the coming seasons.
The Contractual Stakes
Moreira's situation is shaped by a specific contract clause. He joined Honda on a two-year deal with an optional third season. That third year is automatically activated only if he is promoted to the factory team for 2027. If Honda does not move him to the official garage, he will become a free agent for the 2028 season. This places a clear deadline on the manufacturer's decision regarding his future.
Team principals are feeling the pressure of the unresolved lineup. LCR team owner Lucio Cecchinello admitted the lack of information has created tension. He hopes to retain Moreira for another season but understands the 22-year-old's ambition to graduate to the factory squad.
Moreira's Rookie Season Form
The Brazilian rider has been the standout performer for Honda in recent rounds. At the Aragon Grand Prix, he was the highest-placed Honda rider and finished ahead of the entire Yamaha contingent. His season statistics demonstrate growing consistency and speed.
| Metric | Detail |
|---|---|
| Top-10 Finishes (2024) | 5 |
| Best Result | 6th (Hungarian GP) |
| Q2 Appearances (Consecutive) | Italy, Hungary, Czech Republic, Aragon |
| Finishing Range (Since Catalan GP) | Mostly within top 11 |
Moreira spoke to Motorsport.com about his current form. "I'm doing my job and I think we're going in the right direction," he said. "Almost always, I'm in the top 10 and first Honda, so I think we're doing well."
He acknowledged the limitations of his equipment. The rider stated that with the current bike, the best achievable result on a weekend is sixth or seventh place. He finished his assessment by saying, "I think I'm doing my job well."
The Waiting Game
Despite the public uncertainty surrounding his 2027 placement, Moreira insists it does not affect his performance. He claims to have faced greater pressure last year while fighting for the Moto2 world championship. The rookie says his future is clear to him and he is focused on enjoying the current moment in his career.
Industry speculation suggests Honda will announce the lineups for both its factory and LCR teams at the Japanese Grand Prix in early October. All Honda riders, except Johann Zarco, are under direct factory contracts, including test riders Aleix Espargaro and Takaaki Nakagami. For now, Diogo Moreira continues to wait for a call from Tokyo.
