Honda team boss Alberto Puig has revealed that the team are interested in signing reigning MotoGP champion Jorge Martin should he become available at the end of this season.
Reports originally stated that Martin was considering invoking a clause in his Aprilia deal to terminate his contract early at the end of the year.
The Spaniard hasn’t made an official statement on these reports, but Aprilia has stated that the contract “must be respected until its expiration” in 2026.
When questioned at the British Grand Prix, Puig admitted that the Japanese marque might consider bringing in Martin if he becomes available at the end of the year.
“Every single team in the paddock would be interested in a rider like Martin,” Puig told Autosport.
“If you are not interested in Martin, you are an idiot. But we’ll never sign a rider who has a current contract. That’s not Honda’s way.
“But if you ask me if we’re interested in a rider like Martin, obviously we are. We’re interested in fast riders. If he were free at the end of the year, he’s clearly one of the riders to keep an eye on.”
Incumbent Honda HRC rider Luca Marini’s contract expires at the end of the 2025 season, leaving one space open for 2026.
There is stiff competition for the seat since KTM rider Pedro Acosta and reigning WorldSBK champion Toprak Razgatlioglu are also rumoured to be in contention.
Honda could employ internally as LCR rider Johann Zarco has previously expressed interest in a potential move to the factory team.
The Frenchman has played a pivotal role in Honda’s upward trajectory up the grid after it recorded its worst season in the premier class.
