Honda MotoGP faces limited upgrades and qualifying woes in 2026

Honda has shifted most of its development resources toward the new 850 cc engine regulations slated for 2027, meaning the RC213V will not receive any major upgrades for the remainder of the 2026 MotoGP season. Riders Joan Mir and Luca Marini say the bike must now rely on the existing package.

Both riders report difficulty in qualifying, often starting far back on the grid. Mir noted the team has “no new improvements” and must give 150 % with the current machine, while Marini theorised that rival manufacturers may withhold performance on Fridays, gaining an advantage on Saturdays. Other manufacturers such as Aprilia, Ducati and KTM continue to contest for victories.