Despite the (slightly) surprising split looming between Marc Márquez and Honda, Repsol, a long-time sponsor of the Japanese manufacturer, has confirmed its continuation of the partnership. The company has decided to honor its contract with Honda until the end of 2024. This decision coincides with the celebration of the 30th anniversary of the partnership between Repsol and Honda, a collaboration that began in 1995.
The early termination of the contract of the eight-time world champion, who appears to be on the verge of announcing his signing with the Gresini team, will not affect the longstanding partnership between Repsol and Honda. The agreement will remain intact until December 31, 2024. This decision was made in October of last year when Repsol renewed its collaboration with the Tokyo-based brand for another two years. The main goal was to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the alliance, reclaiming the championship lead with Márquez, whose contract with Honda was initially set to end in 2024.
According to information from the Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo, the paths of Márquez and Repsol will diverge. From next season, Repsol will no longer accompany the champion from Cervera, despite having been with him throughout his entire MotoGP career. However, there is a possibility that the relationship between Marc and the Spanish company could be reignited in 2025, especially if Repsol decides to end its partnership with Honda.
Much will depend on the performance of the Japanese brand next season and on Márquez’s career trajectory after a year with the Gresini team. If rumors about Márquez’s possible transfer to KTM materialize, Repsol’s reunion with the Spanish rider may face challenges due to ExxonMobil’s sponsorship of the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing team. ExxonMobil signed a long-term partnership with the team last February.
