MotoGP, Sportrik Media - Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) announced on Tuesday (14/10/2025) that Brazilian rider Diogo Moreira will make his MotoGP debut in the 2026 season with the LCR Honda satellite team, partnering Johann Zarco. Moreira, who signed a multi-year contract, will replace Somkiat Chantra, who moves to Honda’s WorldSBK team.
The announcement, first reported by Motorsport.com in August 2025, confirms the completion of the 2026 MotoGP premier class grid. Moreira, currently second in the Moto2 standings with Italtrans, trails Manuel Gonzalez by nine points following Gonzalez’s disqualification in the Indonesian Moto2 for an electronics violation. The 21-year-old has secured three wins and seven podiums in 2025, showcasing his potential to shine in MotoGP.
Sportrik Media Analysis: Moreira’s move to LCR Honda marks a strategic step by HRC to refresh their line-up with young talent, while bolstering their global presence with the first South American rider in modern MotoGP. This transition also reflects Honda’s focus on nurturing intermediate-class talent, with Moreira as the sole Moto2 rookie ascending to the premier class in 2026.
Multi-Year Contract and High Expectations
Per LCR’s official statement, Moreira signed a multi-year deal with HRC, structured as a “2+1” agreement through 2028, with the third year contingent on his 2027 performance. LCR Honda team principal Lucio Cecchinello welcomed Moreira enthusiastically: “Diogo undoubtedly possesses all the qualities to be among the best in MotoGP. His undeniable talent, passion for racing, and proven speed across various bikes and disciplines make him a perfect fit. On behalf of the entire LCR Team, I warmly welcome Diogo and thank HRC for entrusting us with this exciting project for 2026.”
Moreira expressed his excitement: “Joining the MotoGP World Championship with LCR Honda is a dream come true. I want to thank Honda and the team for their trust and this incredible opportunity. I can’t wait to learn, grow, and fight for strong results in this elite motorsport arena.”
Background and Yamaha Competition
Moreira, competing in his second Moto2 season, has a strong relationship with Yamaha Brazil, which supplies sport bikes for his training. This fueled speculation of a potential move to Pramac Racing, Yamaha’s satellite team known for nurturing young talents like Toprak Razgatlioglu. However, HRC’s decisive offer of a three-year contract with factory rider status swayed Moreira to the winged brand. Sportrik Media understands that Yamaha’s uncertainty and HRC’s timely commitment were pivotal in this decision.
Replacing Somkiat Chantra, who underperformed in his MotoGP debut season, underscores HRC’s firm approach to rotating riders for competitiveness. Chantra’s shift to WorldSBK clears the path for Moreira to prove himself on circuits like Losail, Mugello, and Sepang in 2026.
Implications for 2026 MotoGP
Moreira’s arrival adds a fresh dimension to the MotoGP grid, with Brazil represented for the first time since Alex Barros. Sportrik Media assesses that pairing the experienced Zarco with the talented Moreira could strengthen LCR Honda, especially if HRC enhances the RC213V’s performance. However, as a rookie, Moreira faces immense pressure in a competitive field against riders like Pedro Acosta and Fermin Aldeguer.
Outlook for 2026 Season
With the 2026 MotoGP grid now complete, attention turns to Moreira’s adaptation to the premier class. Backed by Cecchinello and HRC, his Moto2 experience positions him as a strong contender to shine. Sportrik Media is optimistic that Moreira could revive Brazil’s MotoGP legacy, with his debut a highlight at the season-opening Qatar Grand Prix.
Sportrik Media will track Moreira’s preparations and LCR Honda’s developments ahead of 2026, delivering in-depth analysis on strategy and performance.
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