Joan Mir Urges Honda Not to Sacrifice 2026 for Future MotoGP Bike

Joan Mir has urged Honda not to abandon development of its current MotoGP bike in the final season of the 1000cc era, insisting that 2026 remains as important as the upcoming 850cc revolution. The 2020 world champion, who will join Gresini Ducati next year, believes a balance must be struck.

"We have to continue pushing, even if the priority probably is next year," said Joan Mir at Silverstone on Thursday. "This year is not less important than next year."

Honda climbed out of the lowest concession ranking last season thanks to four podiums, including Johann Zarco's wet victory at Le Mans. However, a podium-less start to 2026 has seen the Japanese manufacturer slip back into Rank D alongside Yamaha for the remainder of the season.

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Mir acknowledged the team has lost ground to its rivals. "Last year we did a great job to close the gap. This year, because of new regulations next year, we didn't get as much new stuff. Others made a step forward, which puts us in a slightly worse situation than the end of last year," he explained.

The 28-year-old dismissed the idea that Honda should focus resources entirely on the 2027 machine. "It's a balance. Everybody has to be focused on next year, but this year is not less important. We all want good results, and there is a balance," he stated.

Mir also highlighted ongoing technical issues, particularly mechanical grip and aerodynamics. "Our aero package is the same as last year. Fast corners are a bit of an issue, and mechanical grip is still a problem. Here at Silverstone, there are many fast corners, so it will be hard," he said.

Despite the challenges, Mir insisted the team must keep pushing. "We cannot wait for others to struggle. We have to continue developing the bike, even if the priority is next year," he concluded. His teammate Luca Marini currently leads Honda's charge in the standings, sitting tenth.