JAPAN: In a surprising move, Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) appointed Takeshi Sato as its new General Technical Director, effective October 1. Sato, who previously served as the head of development for the Honda RC213V, takes on this pivotal role on the same day as the Japanese Grand Prix unfolds at the Motegi circuit.
However, this appointment is shrouded in uncertainty due to its potential impact on the lingering question of Marc Marquez’s future with the team.
The seven-time MotoGP world champion, Marc Marquez, has been a key figure in the Honda racing stable. Yet, speculation has been rife that he might jump ship to the Gresini Ducati squad for the 2024 season. Marquez’s hesitance to confirm his commitment to Honda has left the racing world in suspense.
Marquez, in a recent statement, referred to the changing faces within the Honda organization, saying, “We will see if they bring new ideas or the correct ideas. But one more time, I continue with my words: I’m not the guy who chooses where, how, and who needs to make the bike.”
The decision regarding Marquez’s future was initially expected around the time of the Indian Grand Prix and this weekend’s Motegi round. However, Marquez announced that no official news on his 2024 plans would be disclosed at Honda’s home race.
Sources suggest that Honda executives are still in ongoing discussions with Marquez, attempting to convince him to honour the final year of his contract. The promotion of Takeshi Sato, another Japanese engineer within the company, may not be enough to meet Marquez’s expectations.
Marquez’s teammate, Joan Mir, also weighed in on the situation, stating, “The important thing is to understand if this change works and provides something new.”
As the Japanese Grand Prix kicks off, all eyes are on Takeshi Sato and the potential impact his appointment may have on the future of one of MotoGP’s most dominant forces.
The racing world awaits further developments with bated breath, eager to learn whether Marquez will continue his storied career with Honda or seek new horizons.
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