Honda Picks Mir and Marini for 850cc Test

MotoGP, Sportrik Media - Honda has selected Joan Mir and Luca Marini for its first race-rider test of the 850cc MotoGP prototype at Brno on Monday after the 2026 Czech Grand Prix. The decision has been made despite both riders being expected to leave the factory HRC operation at the end of the season.

Mir and Marini will sample the prototype developed for MotoGP’s 2027 regulations together with the new tyres supplied by Pirelli. The test will give Honda an early opportunity to compare the characteristics of its current RC213V with the 850cc concept being prepared for the next technical era.

The selection attracted attention because Honda could provide valuable information to future rivals. Mir is described as being set to join Gresini Racing on Ducati machinery in 2027, while Marini’s future remains unresolved. Honda has nevertheless decided that their development experience carries greater value than the risk of technical knowledge moving elsewhere.

Read AlsoAlex Marquez Cleared to Race at Brno MotoGP

“I think it’s a clever thing. Honda is trying to develop a new bike, and they have two riders who developed this bike over the last few years. The progression was there, so I don’t see a reason why not,” Mir said.

Mir and Marini have played important roles in Honda’s performance recovery after the Japanese manufacturer endured a prolonged difficult period. Both understand the development of the chassis, electronics, aerodynamics, engine braking and grip distribution of the current motorcycle. That continuity allows engineers to evaluate the 850cc prototype against references established across several seasons.

Rider feedback will be particularly important because the 2027 motorcycle will involve more than a reduction in engine capacity. The regulations will also introduce Pirelli tyres, reduced aerodynamics and the removal of ride-height devices. Together, those changes will alter braking behaviour, corner speed, traction and power delivery across a lap.

Mir believes the Brno outing will also provide significant value for Pirelli. The tyre manufacturer requires data from established MotoGP riders to refine construction, profile and compound choices for the performance demands of the new machines. Feedback on front grip, braking stability and rear degradation will help Pirelli prepare before the 2027 season begins.

“We will also give good feedback to Pirelli. That is important to help them make some evolution and arrive prepared for next season,” Mir said.

Marini described the test as an interesting opportunity because every manufacturer is expected to have already developed a reasonably advanced base. He also believes the Pirelli tyres appear to be progressing positively, although a meaningful assessment can only be made after the package is used at Brno.

“I think every manufacturer is already at a good step with a good base. The Pirelli tyres also look like they are already going in a good direction. Let’s see after Monday what the feedback is,” Marini said.

Marini does not regard the outing as an audition for a 2027 MotoGP seat. The Italian believes one test day will not change the decisions surrounding his future. His priority will instead be to provide accurate information and help Honda establish the correct development direction for the prototype.

Honda’s decision differs from the approach taken by several rivals. Yamaha will not use future Honda rider Fabio Quartararo in its development programme, while Ducati has excluded Pecco Bagnaia from its test plans. Honda has retained Mir and Marini because their knowledge includes direct experience of both the weaknesses and the recent progress of its current motorcycle.

Rookie Diogo Moreira, who has a Honda contract for next season, has not yet received confirmation regarding his participation. The LCR rider said he wants to join the test because the motorcycle will form the foundation of the 2027 package, but the final decision remains subject to discussions with the team and manufacturer.

“I don’t know yet. We need to talk. Of course, I want to test because it’s a new bike and I’m free, but we’ll see,” Moreira said.

The limited number of prototypes and tyres available is expected to restrict each manufacturer to two motorcycles. The private test will take place without media access or official timing. Its purpose will therefore not be to compare lap times between manufacturers, but to collect technical data on the engine, chassis, electronics and tyres.

Honda must now use the information provided by Mir and Marini to accelerate its 2027 programme before both riders leave the factory team. The Brno test will indicate whether their experience can help establish a competitive technical foundation and shape Honda’s direction ahead of the next phase of 850cc development.