It's the end of one of racing's most iconic partnerships when Repsol cuts its sponsorship of the Honda MotoGP team in 2025. Repsol, a renowned name in MotoGP, has been the title sponsor of the Honda team since 1995. Rumours circulated at the start of the 2024 season about Repsol's potential departure from Honda, fueled by Marc Marquez's exit the previous year. Following Marquez's departure, Repsol invoked a clause to reduce its financial contributions. Consequently, Honda's colours have become more prominent on the bike's livery this year, overshadowing Repsol's branding. This marks a significant shift in the MotoGP landscape, highlighting the end of an era for Honda-Repsol collaboration.
Repsol and Honda
Repsol and Honda have earned 15 championship titles, 183 victories, and 455 podiums across their 30-year partnership. However, in 2024, Honda continues to struggle. Factory rider Joan Mir has scored only 13 points, and Luca Marini remains the only full-time rider without any points. Last in the constructors' rankings, Honda trails Ducati by 185 points following six rounds.
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The 2024 RC213V prototype received initial accolades during off-season testing, and it had an acceptable performance in the Qatar season opener. However, the bike did not perform well at Portimao and the Circuit of the Americas, which are two important tracks.
Honda's 'Rank D' concession status allows it to test with race riders outside approved collective tests. Joan Mir and Luca Marini evaluated new development items recently in Barcelona.
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Given the championship moves to 40 per cent non-fossil fuels in 2024 and 100 per cent synthetic petrol by 2027, Repsol's 30th season as Honda's sponsor has been underwhelming.
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