Honda in Australia: Joan Mir still unwell, Marini a lone fighter

Luca Marini recently had a difficult MotoGP weekend in Indonesia – just like the other Honda riders. In Australia, the Italian is hoping to get back on track with the RC213V.

“After a short break, it’s back to work as we prepare for three consecutive race weekends. Phillip Island is a circuit that every rider loves – racing down the straight with nothing but the sea in front of you is a very special experience, and of course the layout is unique on the entire racing calendar,” said Valentino Rossi’s half-brother. “The aim is to enjoy this weekend and score as many points as possible. I know the team has been working hard this week between races to improve our performance. Five more Grands Prix – five chances to show everything we’ve achieved together over the past few years.”

Speculation surrounds Joan Mir

Luca Marini will be racing as a lone rider for the Honda works team at Phillip Island. Having already missed the races in Austria, Japan and Indonesia, his team-mate Joan Mir will also have to sit out the Australian Grand Prix. Doctors are working hard to get the Spaniard back on the track. However, the Australian Grand Prix would come too soon for him. Exactly what is wrong with Joan Mir has not yet been disclosed.

Honda test rider Aleix Espargaro will also be unavailable in Australia. Having been forced to pull out of the race weekend in Indonesia, he completed a private test for HRC last week in Sepang on the 850cc bike. During the test, the Spaniard suffered from chronic compartment syndrome (arm pump). He is now due to undergo surgery in Barcelona in the coming days.

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22.10.2026 - 23:55