Luca Marini had a promising start with Honda during the MotoGP tests in Valencia. Alberto Puig, the team manager, discussed Marini’s transition and the team’s focus on developing the RC213V bike.
Marini, previously with the Mooney VR46 team, recorded the tenth-best time during the test day, making him the top HRC rider. He appeared pleased after joining the official Repsol Honda team. Puig revealed insights into Marini’s move to Honda, emphasizing the need for a fresh approach to the RC213V’s development.
With Marc Marquez’s long tenure at Honda ending, the Japanese manufacturer is looking for new directions and has entrusted young talents like Marini and Johann Zarco (from LCR) to provide valuable insights for the RC213V’s evolution. During the last MotoGP 2023 test, Joan Mir bore the brunt of the bike’s development, benefiting from new concessions in the regulations.
Puig, in a direct conversation with motogp.com, stated that Honda’s current priority is to “properly develop the bike,” acknowledging that they are far from where they need to be. He highlighted the organizational changes within HRC to give a new approach to the RC213V’s development, expecting faster and more directed progress.
Regarding Marini’s hiring, Puig said, “Honestly, there weren’t many other options.” Marini and his team were the first to approach Honda after the news about Marc broke. Puig noted Marini’s steady progress over the years and believed bringing him into the team was a good option given their situation.
“ He and his men were the first to approach us when the news broke about Marc. Honestly, there weren’t many other options, because almost all riders have long-term contracts and he had the option to come. We were thinking about it, his progress has been good in recent years, we studied his progress . And then we thought that bringing Luca into the team would be a good option given our situation .”
Puig clarified that they wouldn’t bring people from other teams for Marini. He will work alongside his new team chief Giacomo Guidotti, who previously led Joan Mir’s technical box, while Mir will be under Santi Hernandez. Puig expressed satisfaction with Marini’s precise feedback and handling of the day.
Finally, Puig wasn’t surprised to see Marc Marquez immediately perform well on the Ducati, finishing the Valencia MotoGP tests with the 4th best time. He acknowledged Marquez’s talent and the potential of the Ducati, stating that it was no surprise to see him do well.