HONDA MAY COMPENSATE ALONSO AFTER FACTORY SEAT GOES TO MOREIRA

David Alonso is set to make his MotoGP debut with LCR Honda in 2027, rather than joining the factory team as many had expected when Honda signed him last year. His contract is directly with HRC, and the Colombian had been widely tipped to partner Fabio Quartararo. But Honda has reportedly changed its plans after Alonso’s disappointing Moto2 season, opting to promote Diogo Moreira following the Brazilian’s impressive rookie campaign in MotoGP. Moreira is also contracted to HRC through 2028, and Honda is said to be keen to support his development.

Alonso has not objected to moving to LCR, described by journalist David Emmett as one of the strongest satellite teams. Still, losing the factory place could be a setback, particularly if Alonso had believed it was part of his future with Honda. Emmett suggested on the Paddock Pass Podcast that the manufacturer may offer the rider additional financial compensation for the change.

“ I suspect that David Alonso will get a little bit of extra compensation for the hardship of having to be in one of the best satellite teams there,” Emmett said. He praised LCR as “a fantastic team” before joking that Honda might provide “an extra thick pillow case full of hundred euro notes to cry his tears on.”

Emmett also explained why Honda moved early to secure Alonso. Two years ago, he said, the rider looked like “the next big thing,” and Honda faced a difficult choice: sign him and risk the deal not working out, or let a rival take him and potentially regret it if he succeeded. Alonso had looked strong even at the end of last season, despite injuries, Emmett added.

The report says Alonso is already on a substantial Honda contract and had sought high wages. Ducati was reportedly unable to meet his demands despite interest from team boss Luigi Dall’Igna, while Ducati and Yamaha were not prepared to offer him a factory deal. Honda did meet his financial expectations, and any extra payment linked to his LCR move could further strengthen his position ahead of 2027.