Alberto Puig’s Calvary continues, in a future that will bring changes but without forgetting the present.

The Repsol Honda Team Manager, Alberto Puig, recently shared his views on how the team plans to face the changes in the MotoGP regulations for 2027, which include reducing the engine capacity from 1000cc to 850cc and banning certain devices like the holeshot. Puig emphasized Honda’s commitment to maintaining speed and innovation amidst these changes. “‘Well, I mean, from Honda’s point of view, the company has been competing since 1959, which was a long time ago, and has adapted to different regulations, different riders, rules, and in all classes,'” Puig began to explain. The manager continued: “‘So, now we have reached a point where it will change again. And I think it’s a challenge for everyone. And Honda will be there to see how we can do it. And a new regulation is always made. It’s important how we got there. In this case, it was a long negotiation with all manufacturers, with Dorna and all parties. And finally, we reached an agreement, which is a consensus, which is always good. So yes, we have the regulation, and we will go for it.'” Changes in engine capacity, the same with aerodynamics, and also no ‘holeshot’ device. “‘This is very difficult, because from my experience, we have seen many different regulations. But in the end, we are always getting faster. So, I mean, I think that is the key for the engineers,'” added Alberto Puig.

‘I mean, this is the number one championship in the world. So, what we don’t want is to be slow. So, in a way, it’s going to be a challenge for everyone. And also for the riders, I mean, if they remove some devices from the bikes now, they will probably have to rely a bit more on durability as a rider and not depend so much on technology. So, in the end, I think it will be a great challenge’.

‘Also, the engine capacity will be reduced’ reflected the Spaniard. ‘So, there’s always a reduction in engine capacity. Engineers have to think very, very carefully about how they are going to do this, because they don’t want to lose too much. They know they have to lose, but they will try not to lose. Anyway, in the end, I mean, it will be interesting, and Honda will be ready for it’ said Puig.

‘Well, I don’t know, but I think all the factories are already thinking about how they are going to do this. So I think it’s already in progress. But I don’t know what the others are doing. But the common basic thing is that we have to start thinking early’.

Puig reiterated Honda’s focus on innovation and adaptation, ensuring that the team remains competitive despite regulatory changes.

Ready for the change:

Puig emphasized that all factories are creating strategies for these changes to stay ahead in the competition. The emphasis is on starting early to smoothly integrate new strategies and technologies.