MotoGP, Sportrik Media - Joan Mir, the 2020 MotoGP World Champion riding for Honda HRC Castrol, has urged caution regarding victory expectations despite securing back-to-back third-place finishes in Japan and Malaysia during the 2025 Asian swing.
While Honda has shown clear recovery from its 2024 struggles, Mir emphasized that the team must first achieve stable podium results before targeting race wins. He described current performance as all-or-nothing: podium success or crashes.
Setup Gains Boost Front-End Confidence
Mir attributed recent improvements to setup changes that enhance front-end feel on the RC213V. However, grip remains a persistent limitation, particularly on low-traction circuits.
“In terms of setup, we found something that allows me to ride in a better way: I can attack more the front, I can turn more the bike going into the corners,” Mir explained in the Malaysian post-race press conference.
Consequently, grip enhancement tops the development priority list for 2026 to ensure competitiveness across all track conditions.
Long-Term Recovery Efforts Pay Off
Honda’s decline began years ago, but sustained collaboration between riders and engineers is now yielding results. Since joining in 2023, Mir has played a central role in providing detailed feedback to HRC technicians.
Among Honda riders, Mir currently leads in exploiting the bike’s potential. He has outperformed the more consistent Luca Marini and Johann Zarco, who claimed victory in France earlier this season.
Stability Before Victory Aspirations
When pressed on when Honda might win again, Mir adopted a measured tone. He stressed the need to secure regular podium finishes first.
“To start running, we have to walk first. We finish on the podium or on the ground, and this is not possible,” he stated firmly.
The bike currently demands maximum effort every lap, increasing error risk. Therefore, improving stability and rider-friendliness is essential to reduce pressure and enable consistent top-three results.
Outlook for Honda’s Future
Despite challenges, Mir expressed strong confidence in Honda’s engineering team. Ongoing data analysis and close rider-engineer cooperation provide hope for further gains.
As the 2025 season concludes, this year’s progress lays a solid foundation for 2026. Mir’s priority remains building reliability that positions Honda consistently at the front, rather than chasing isolated wins.
Baca Juga
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