This year’s MotoGP silly season is wilder than a last-lap showdown, with contracts flying faster than a Ducati on the main straight. The 2026 and 2027 MotoGP grid is already taking shape, and the headlines are all about some major moves, a big-name acquisition, and the dawn of a new era.
Guenther Steiner’s MotoGP Takeover 🤘
The most shocking news to drop is that former Formula 1 team boss Guenther Steiner has acquired the Red Bull KTM Tech3 team. Known for his no-nonsense attitude and a certain, shall we say, “rock ‘n’ roll” flair, Steiner is stepping into the MotoGP paddock. This isn’t just a change of management; it’s a new chapter for the Tech3 squad. This strategic move could be a game-changer for Tech3, bringing a fresh perspective on team management, marketing, and commercial partnerships.
Steiner’s business acumen and a background in rallying and F1 could be the catalyst KTM needs to elevate their satellite team. Fans and competitors are buzzing about what this means. Will we see a more aggressive marketing push? Could the team become a key player in rider development? The acquisition, backed by a consortium of investors, signals a belief in MotoGP’s growing global appeal and the potential for a team like Tech3 to become a household name, much like Haas became in F1. The move is a big win for MotoGP’s brand, attracting new audiences and showing a healthy, competitive market for teams and investors.
The Zarco & Marini Masterclass: The Honda Gamble
While other riders are just locking in their 2026 deals, Johann Zarco is playing a different kind of chess. He has secured a contract with LCR Honda for both 2026 and 2027, making him one of the first riders to commit to the new regulatory era. This is a massive vote of confidence from both sides. For Zarco, it’s a strategic move to capitalize on the 2027 rule changes, which will see engine displacement drop to 850cc and a ban on ride-height devices. He believes his vast experience will give him an edge as everyone starts from scratch.
For Honda, retaining Zarco is a crucial part of their rebuilding project. His detailed feedback and calm demeanor are a huge asset as they develop a completely new bike. They know his veteran presence is exactly what they need to get back to the front. Likewise, Luca Marini will continue his journey with the Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) factory team for 2026. Honda values his analytical approach and meticulous feedback, which has been instrumental in the development of the RC213V. This continuity provides stability for HRC as they work to overcome their recent struggles and prepare for the 2027 regulations.
Honda’s strategy is clear: they are banking on experienced development riders to create a new, winning machine. This is a high-stakes gamble, but with riders who are committed to the long-term project, it could pay off big time. Competitors are watching closely, as a revitalized Honda would completely reshuffle the deck.
Catalan Grand Prix Recap (September 5-7, 2025)
The Catalan GP was a major event with a lot of drama and key results.
- Alex Marquez’s Redemption: Alex Marquez secured a stunning home-turf victory in the main race, fending off his brother, Marc Marquez. This was a significant win for Alex, especially after a disappointing crash while leading the Sprint race the day before.
- Marc Marquez’s Continued Dominance (and a brief interruption): Marc Marquez won the Sprint race after his brother Alex crashed out while in the lead. This victory marked his 14th Sprint win of the 2025 season. Despite Alex’s win in the main race, Marc still holds a commanding lead in the 2025 championship standings.
- Ducati’s Constructors’ Title: Ducati officially clinched the 2025 Constructors’ Championship at the Catalan GP, a testament to the overall strength and performance of their bikes and riders throughout the season.
Championship Standings (As of September 7, 2025)
Marc Marquez continues to lead the championship by a wide margin. The standings are as follows:
- Marc Marquez: 487 points
- Alex Marquez: 305 points
- Francesco Bagnaia: 237 points
- Marco Bezzecchi: 197 points
The Rest of the Grid is Falling into Place ✍️
The rider carousel spun a few more times with these key announcements:
- Jack Miller is set to join the Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP team for 2026. Miller’s signing brings his proven race craft and extensive knowledge of different bikes to Yamaha. This is a fantastic move for both the rider and the team, as Miller’s experience with various engine configurations, particularly V4s, will be invaluable as Yamaha develops their all-new V4 engine for the 2026 season. It’s a calculated move by Yamaha to bring in a rider with V4 expertise, providing a massive boost to their development program.
- Franco Morbidelli will continue with the Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team for 2026. This renewal is a testament to the trust between Morbidelli and the team. His performance this season has been strong, with multiple podiums. The VR46 team, led by Alessio Salucci, believes in Morbidelli’s potential and their combined ability to secure more wins. His continuity provides a stable and competitive environment for the team to challenge for top honors.
These moves, combined with the earlier announcements, are shaping up a dynamic and unpredictable future for MotoGP. The stage is set for a thrilling end to the current season and an even more exciting transition into the new era of regulations. 🏍️
Sources
- https://www.motogp.com/en/news/2025/09/05/guenther-steiner-leads-acquisition-of-tech3-motogp-team/758123
- https://honda.racing/motogp/post/johann-zarco-to-continue-with-castrol-honda-lcr
- https://motogp.hondaracingcorporation.com/report/honda-racing-corporation-and-luca-marini-extend-contract-to-2026/
- https://www.yamahamotogp.com/news/04-09-2025-yamaha-motor-co-ltd-announce-jack-miller-contract-renewal-for-2026
- https://www.autosport.com/motogp/news/marini-renews-contract-with-factory-honda-for-motogp-2026/10743876/
- https://www.autohebdof1.com/news/MotoGP/Franco-Morbidelli-extends-with-VR46-for-2026.html
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