Marini: "Honda RC213V 2026 More Stable with High Potential"

MotoGP, Sportrik Media - Luca Marini tested the first prototype of the 2026 RC213V from Honda during the MotoGP collective test at Misano, expressing satisfaction with the progress made. Although the prototype is not yet faster than the current version, the Italian rider from Honda HRC believes its foundation is very solid, with stability as the key improvement. The test took place amid Joan Mir's absence due to injury, making Marini's workload more intensive.

At the Misano Circuit test day, Honda introduced the early 2026 RC213V version, recognizable by its distinct rear design and matte black color. The main focus was on next-season development, following prior emphasis on the 2025 season end in Barcelona. Thus, these positive results boost optimism for the Japanese team striving to rebound from this season's challenges. Consequently, Marini underscores the importance of rider feedback for sustained advancement.

Positive Test Results at Misano

Luca Marini shared his experiences after an intensive session. He stated, "It was a positive test. For the end of this season, perhaps last Monday in Barcelona was better, because we had more things focused on that; today we focused on the next year's bike. I enjoyed riding the new bike and we found something positive. It's not faster yet, but there's a lot of potential."

Furthermore, he added, "In the afternoon we focused on what we can do between now and the end of the year and we found a little something in terms of set-up and aerodynamics. I think everyone did a great job in the garage and it's a shame Joan couldn't join, because my program was a bit more intense, but above all, I was also happy to get his input on the things we tried today."

From this viewpoint, even without superior speed, the visible potential instills confidence in Honda. As a result, the team can build a stronger foundation heading into 2026, with Marini at the forefront of development.

Stability as the Key Advancement

When asked which aspect stood out most, Marini highlighted stability. After a brief consideration, he said, "I would probably say stability. Currently, I think the bike is more stable." This enhancement is crucial, especially on circuits like Misano that demand high balance.

The testing primarily focused on the aerodynamic package, where Marini provided deep insights. He explained, "The tail gives us a bit more load, but it's always important to balance the front and rear load to get good turning and stability. At one point, we had a bike full of wings and very stable in Turns 11, 12, and 13 (the fast section), so every lap I could push a bit harder, but at that time we lost a bit of turning. So we took a step back and found the right compromise. But it's very important to work well on aerodynamics, because it's very easy to understand if what you're testing works or not. And making all the wings work in the right way will solve many problems. For the future, we have to keep doing this."

Thus, balancing stability and maneuverability is key, potentially addressing current RC213V weaknesses. Consequently, Honda could close the gap with rivals like Ducati in this area.

Motivation in Official Team Development

Marini showed high enthusiasm for his role in the official Honda team. He said, "I love it. Currently, perhaps if you're in a satellite team, you can get a good setup and post good lap times, because that's all you can do in testing. On the other hand, in the official team, you also try things that don't work. You go slower, but there's also a lot of motivation, because it's a great stimulus. The most important thing is when you can find something that can improve the bike, you want it right away for the next weekend, but sometimes it takes time. But it's something that makes me very happy."

After 1.5 years of hard work, Marini is reaping rewards with more consistent top-10 finishes. Therefore, his role as development 'captain' brings personal fulfillment, despite the challenges.

Views on Rivals and Internal Changes

Marini also commented on Yamaha's underwhelming V4 engine debut. He stated, "They've taken a longer route. When you change engines, it's harder. If you're using a V4 for the first time, the bike definitely works slower and consumes more fuel. It's normal for that to happen, but I think they'll overcome it. I think we're working very well, in the right direction, with very precise feedback, which allows the engineers to respond to what we ask in a perfect way. We're having fun."

Additionally, he praised Romano Albesiano, the new technical leader. "It's hard to measure, but he's doing a good job and most importantly, I've seen him very integrated lately. We've found the right relationship between the European and Japanese teams. We've made big steps in terms of organization and execution speed, but also in making responsible and faster decisions. This was always a bit difficult in the past. But when the feedback from the riders is clear and you understand the direction to take, then everything becomes easier."

Marini concluded with confidence, "I'm very happy with our current position. I get this position all the time, because at the beginning we had to get to know each other and they also had to trust all my input. Now, as soon as I tell them something, they take it very well and I see in their eyes an extraordinary attention, because they know that if I tell them yes, then yes, and if I tell them no, then no."

Overall, the Misano test signals tangible progress for Honda toward 2026, with stability and aerodynamics as core foundations. Marini, leading development, offers optimism that the team can compete more effectively. Sportrik Media will continue monitoring RC213V evolution for further analysis.