Joan Mir Prioritizes New Honda Deal Despite Delay in Signing

Joan Mir’s manager, Paco Sanchez, has affirmed that securing a contract extension with Repsol Honda for the upcoming MotoGP season is the top priority for the 2020 MotoGP champion, but emphasized that no agreement has been finalized yet.

Mir has assumed the role of Honda’s lead rider following his former teammate Marc Marquez’s departure. However, the ongoing technical challenges with the RC213V have relegated him to 18th place in the current World Championship standings.

Despite his struggles, the 26-year-old Spaniard, who clinched one championship title, one victory, and 13 podium finishes during his tenure at Suzuki, had been considering options including joining a competitive satellite team, mirroring Marquez’s trajectory.

There have been suggestions linking Mir with a move to Trackhouse Aprilia under the management of former Suzuki team manager Davide Brivio, or possibly to Pramac Ducati, currently led by championship front-runner Jorge Martin (with the caveat that Pramac might switch to Yamaha).

Recent reports indicate that Mir is likely to extend his tenure with Repsol Honda. Sanchez conveyed to Crash.net, “Joan’s priority from the beginning of the season has been to extend his contract with HRC. Despite the current competitiveness issues with the bike. Joan is committed to fighting and contributing towards building a more competitive machine.”

Sanchez further clarified, “However, we have not yet finalized any agreement. Negotiations are ongoing, and we hope to reach an agreement in the coming weeks.”

Reflecting on his future plans, Mir previously stated, “Probably by Assen, I need to have a clearer understanding of what I want to do.”

Assuming Mir renews his contract, he will continue alongside Luca Marini. Who joined HRC as Marquez’s replacement on a deal running through 2025. Meanwhile, Johann Zarco is already under contract at LCR for next season. But Mir’s current teammate, Takaaki Nakagami, is set to see his present deal expire at the end of this year.