MotoGP, Honda launches its 2023 campaign: "We’ve improved and will continue to do so"

2023 has officially begun for Honda with today's team presentation in Madrid. For the Japanese factory team, the upcoming season promises to be both challenging and potentially satisfying, as long as it can match its rivals – Ducati and Aprilia for starters – on a technical level.

There may not be many changes to the livery, but the same can’t be said of the new RCV213V, as confirmed by HRC General Manager, Tetsuhiro Kuwata. “We’ve worked to improve in all areas and continue to do so in preparation for the Portimao tests. I’m pleased to see Marc back on board and fully fit – he can now provide precise feedback and it is up to us to put him in the right situation. It’s also a pleasure to welcome Mir back to Honda after his Moto3 title, we’re convinced he can do well.”

Marquez: “We need to pull in the same direction”

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There is optimism in Kuwata’s words, just as there is in the eyes of Marc Marquez, who spearheads the Honda campaign. The Japanese manufacturer will be aiming to return to centre stage this season.

“A normal winter at last, maybe four or five years since the last one”, begins Marc. “I’ve been able to train and rest in the right way. I’m a perfectionist, and I think in the time available I’ll be able to prepare properly for the first race of the season”.

In any case, the Spaniard is aware of the technical situation at Honda, and also the value of his new team-mate.

“Tests don’t always paint a true picture. We need to pull in the same direction and, if we do, we can achieve results. Mir? This team always wanted two riders capable of winning. Although he’s coming from a different bike, his comments are similar to mine, which is positive.”

Mir, in turn, can only be excited ahead of his Honda debut.

“I often imagined myself in these colours and it’s an honour to now be wearing them. Honda had a difficult season last year, so we’re working to grow. The tests haven’t been easy for me, as I need to adapt to the bike while also testing new things, but the sensations are positive. With Marc as a team-mate, you’re always comparing yourself to the best.”