**Improving Honda’s Performance in MotoGP: Targeting a Half Second Gain over Winter**
Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) faces a critical challenge ahead of the 2025 MotoGP season – finding half a second improvement during the winter break to stay competitive. Luca Marini, factory rider for Honda, emphasized the pressing need for this upgrade to elevate the team’s performance on the track.
**The Struggle and Progress**
Honda’s journey in MotoGP this year was marred by difficulties, with the RC213V proving to be a challenging machine to master. The team found itself languishing at the bottom of the standings, trailing behind rival Yamaha. Despite these setbacks, a glimmer of hope emerged during the Misano test in September. LCR rider Johann Zarco secured Honda’s first top 10 finishes in Indonesia and Thailand, showcasing signs of progress.
**The Road Ahead**
Marini acknowledges that the path to recovery for Honda is long and arduous. The team must remain dedicated in the off-season to bridge the gap with its competitors in the upcoming season. Reflecting on the progress made thus far, Marini noted a positive trend in the bike’s performance and rider improvements. However, he emphasized the need to push further and gain an additional half second before the Sepang race.
**Chasing Ducati and Overcoming Challenges**
Despite the challenges, Marini remains optimistic about Honda’s potential to become the second-best manufacturer in MotoGP, trailing only behind the dominant Ducati. He expressed satisfaction with the team’s progress, highlighting the significant reduction in lap time deficits compared to previous races. Marini’s ultimate goal is to surpass all manufacturers and eventually challenge Ducati’s supremacy in the MotoGP circuit.
**Comparing Progress with Yamaha**
In a comparison with Yamaha, Marini acknowledged the strides his team had made throughout the season. While Honda showed more significant improvements, they were still unable to match Yamaha’s starting point and continuous development. Marini praised Yamaha’s consistent efforts in enhancing their bike and credited rider Fabio Quartararo for his exceptional performance and deep understanding of the Yamaha machine.
As Honda gears up for the 2025 MotoGP season, the team remains focused on overcoming challenges, enhancing performance, and closing the gap with their competitors. With determination and hard work, Honda aims to elevate its standing in the MotoGP hierarchy and carve out its place among the elite manufacturers in the sport.
