Honda optimistic for MotoGP 2025 after strong pre-season test

Honda aims for a comeback in MotoGP 2025 after struggling in the previous season.

Joan Mir of Spain and Honda HRC Castrol rides down a straight during the Thailand MotoGP Test at Chang International Circuit in Buriram, Thailand, on February 12, 2025. Photo by Mirco Lazzari/Getty Images

By Adila Ghina and Randy Ahmad

As MotoGP 2025 approaches, Honda is entering the new season with renewed optimism. The team, which finished at the bottom of the constructor standings last year with just 75 points, is hopeful of a turnaround following an impressive pre-season test at Buriram. With the opening race—the Thailand MotoGP—scheduled from February 28 to March 1, Honda sees signs of progress that could help them compete more effectively this season.

Honda’s improved performance in pre-season testing

Ahead of the season opener, MotoGP teams participated in an official test session at Thailand’s Buriram International Circuit. Honda delivered an encouraging performance, securing second place in the standings. Joan Mir emerged as the team’s top rider, clocking a time just 0.339 seconds behind Aprilia’s Marco Bezzecchi, who topped the session with a best lap of 1 minute 29.0600 seconds.

For Honda, this marks a significant improvement from last season, where the team struggled for competitive pace. In 2024, Honda failed to secure a single race win or podium finish, raising concerns about the team’s ability to challenge the front-runners. However, the recent test results suggest that they have made crucial strides in development.

Honda confident despite last season’s struggles

Repsol Honda team manager Alberto Puig expressed confidence in the team’s progress but remained cautious about expectations for the upcoming races.

"All the riders are trying very hard, they are motivated, but the race is not one or two laps, you have to pay attention to the pace. Many things can happen during a race weekend," Puig told GP One.

"You have to realize that we can be a little bit more optimistic, but on Sunday you see everything," he added, acknowledging the unpredictability of race conditions.

Honda’s optimism comes after a difficult 2024 season in which they finished last among the manufacturers, with their riders struggling to match the pace of Ducati, KTM, and Aprilia. Despite efforts to improve the RC213V, the team found itself unable to keep up with its rivals throughout the year.

Joan Mir’s role in Honda’s resurgence

Joan Mir, a former MotoGP champion, has been instrumental in Honda’s efforts to rebuild. After a tough 2024 season, the Spanish rider is showing signs of adapting better to the Honda RC213V, as reflected in his promising test results at Buriram.

Mir's ability to extract performance from the bike will be crucial for Honda's chances in 2025. The team has also made adjustments to its setup and development approach to provide Mir and his teammates with a more competitive machine.

The road ahead for Honda in MotoGP 2025

While Honda’s pre-season test results indicate progress, the real test will come when the season officially begins at the Thailand MotoGP. The team will be looking to convert its improved pace into strong race performances, aiming to return to the podium after a year-long drought.

As the season unfolds, Honda will need to maintain consistency and continue refining its bike to keep up with the dominant teams. The early signs are promising, but the ultimate challenge lies in turning testing speed into race-day success.

MotoGP 2025 is shaping up to be a crucial year for Honda as they seek to reestablish themselves as title contenders. With Joan Mir leading the charge, the team hopes to make a strong comeback and reclaim its place among the front-runners.