HONDA COULD STILL OFFER MANUEL GONZALEZ A 2027 LCR HONDA OPENING

Manuel Gonzalez’s path to the MotoGP grid for 2027 appeared to narrow sharply, but Honda is now being linked with a possible late rescue. The Moto2 championship leader has been pushing for a premier-class opportunity, yet several routes have closed. He was heavily connected with Tech3, only for Senna Agius to secure the seat instead, with Luca Marini taking the other option.

Other avenues have also been difficult. World Superbikes has been mentioned as an alternative, but the report notes Gonzalez has not found the luck he needed there either. BMW, meanwhile, is set to sign Brad Binder for 2027 after a period of competition for the same ride.

With those options fading, attention has turned to LCR Honda. The suggestion is that Gonzalez could replace Johann Zarco in 2027, depending on how Zarco’s situation develops. Zarco is currently recovering from a “horror crash” in Barcelona, and Cal Crutchlow has been standing in while the French rider works toward a return.

The key uncertainty is whether Zarco can be fit to race. Journalist Diego Lacave, speaking on the NicoabadTV YouTube channel, described an “uncertainty” around whether Lucio Cechinello will proceed with Zarco next season. Lacave also pointed out that Zarco has “every right to fulfil” his 2027 contract, but that the injuries complicate the picture. He indicated there could be a window for Gonzalez in 2027—and potentially even 2028—if Zarco is judged unable to continue.

Jake Dixon has also weighed in, calling it a “crime” that Gonzalez is not already in MotoGP. Zarco is planned to return at Misano in September; if he is fit, the report says it would be unlikely for LCR to move him on. However, with Zarco’s contract expiring in 2027, the door could still open for Gonzalez for the 2028 season if circumstances force a change.