Diogo Moreira Joins Honda Racing Corporation for 2026 MotoGP

Diogo Moreira, a native of São Paulo, has quickly risen through the ranks of motorcycle racing, showcasing his talent and determination. Moreira began his World Championship journey in the Moto3 class in 2022, where he made an immediate impact by securing one win, three podium finishes, and two pole positions. His transition to the Moto2 class was marked by continued success, earning the title of Rookie of the Year in 2024. In 2025, Moreira further proved his prowess with a debut win at Assen, followed by victories in Austria and a recent triumph in Indonesia, solidifying his status as a formidable competitor. This upward trajectory has positioned him as one of the most promising young talents in the sport, drawing the attention of Honda Racing Corporation. Koji Watanabe, President of HRC, expressed his excitement about Moreira's addition to the team, highlighting the rider's speed, maturity, and adaptability as key factors in their decision. "We believe he will adapt quickly to the challenges of MotoGP and are confident this collaboration will bring great results," Watanabe stated.

The collaboration between Honda and LCR has been instrumental in nurturing young talent, and Moreira's signing is a testament to their commitment to fostering the next generation of MotoGP stars. Lucio Cecchinello, Team Principal of Honda LCR, echoed this sentiment, expressing his enthusiasm for Moreira's arrival. "Diogo possesses all the qualities to become one of the greats in MotoGP. He has undeniable talent and a deep passion for racing," Cecchinello remarked. The team is eager to work with Moreira, who will join the experienced Johann Zarco, creating a dynamic duo that promises to deliver thrilling performances on the track.

For Moreira, the opportunity to race in the MotoGP World Championship represents the realization of a lifelong dream. "Joining the MotoGP World Championship with Honda LCR is a dream come true," Moreira shared. His journey from the FIM CEV Moto3 Junior World Championship, where he placed tenth in 2020, to the brink of MotoGP competition is a testament to his dedication and skill. Moreira's career trajectory has been marked by consistent improvement and a relentless pursuit of excellence, attributes that will serve him well as he prepares to compete at the highest level of motorcycle racing.

As the 2026 season approaches, the racing community eagerly anticipates Moreira's debut in the premier class. His performance in the Moto2 class, where he currently holds second place as of the Indonesian GP, has set high expectations. Moreira's adaptability and competitive spirit suggest that he will seamlessly transition to the challenges of MotoGP. With Honda's backing and the support of the LCR team, Moreira is poised to make a significant impact, potentially reshaping the competitive landscape of MotoGP. His journey underscores the importance of nurturing young talent within the sport, a mission that Honda and LCR continue to champion.