Honda Signs Fabio Quartararo for 2027 and 2028 MotoGP Seasons
Honda’s factory MotoGP team has secured Fabio Quartararo on a two-year contract beginning in 2027, bringing an end to the French rider’s long association with Yamaha.
The 26-year-old, who made his MotoGP debut with Yamaha in 2019, will depart the manufacturer after the 2026 season. Quartararo delivered Yamaha its most recent riders’ championship in 2021 and has since collected 11 wins, 32 podium finishes and 21 pole positions with the team.
However, Yamaha’s competitiveness has declined in recent seasons and, despite increased investment, performance gains have not met Quartararo’s expectations. His last contract renewal in 2024 was described as a vote of confidence in the project, but results failed to convince him to continue beyond the current deal.
Transitional Period Before New Regulations
The 2026 season is expected to serve as a transition ahead of major rule changes in 2027, when MotoGP will switch to 850cc engines. It remains unclear how involved Quartararo will be in developing Yamaha’s next-generation bike before his departure.
Management changes at Yamaha also coincided with growing tensions. Long-time boss Lin Jarvis left at the end of 2024, with Paolo Pavesio taking over, but the shift reportedly did little to ease the rider’s frustrations.
Honda Yet to Confirm Team-Mate
Attention now turns to who will partner Fabio Quartararo at Honda. Current factory riders Joan Mir and Luca Marini are both under contract until the end of 2026, and Honda is reportedly assessing performance and internal dynamics before deciding its future line-up.
Other riders linked to the seat include Pedro Acosta and Jorge Martin. Martin previously attempted to leave Aprilia in 2025 after talks with Honda, but the move collapsed after resistance from his team and intervention from championship authorities.
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