The Honda MotoGP squad showed off a renewed paint scheme its RC213-V’s will wear in 2024, with long-standing title partner Repsol reducing its backing of the operation for this season.
It’s been expected for some time Honda would be running a different paint job after reports linked Spanish lubricants provider Repsol to reducing its support of the Japanese manufacturer following several tough seasons.
The brand remains its title sponsor for the 30th straight year for 2024 though, and features heavily towards the bottom of the machine as well as around the seat. A large white Honda is now displayed proudly along the side of the machines, the logo based on a dark blue background reflecting the colors of HRC.
Honda will also run an all-new sustainable fuel developed by Repsol as MotoGP moves to 100% renewable fuel for this season, for all manufacturers. Revealing the design in an online launch, 2024 riders Joan Mir and new signing Luca Marini were on hand to reveal their weapons to the world.
“It’s amazing to be part of a team with such history and success in MotoGP, I am as excited to start this season with the Repsol Honda Team as I was the last one,” said Mir.
“We have had a positive first taste of the bike and five productive days in Sepang, now we have to look ahead to the Qatar Test and the race.
“Last year taught me a lot and I am looking to put everything into practice for this year to help the Repsol Honda Team return to where I know they can be.”
Marini added that he is looking to make the most of his dream to ride for the factory Honda operation, insisting he feels “proud” to represent the organization for his third year in the premier class.
“For me it is an honor to join the Repsol Honda Team, when I was a young child I already had some leathers in their colors for racing minibikes.
“We are just at the start of our journey together, but I already feel a part of the team and well supported by the engineers.
“I’ve ridden just six days on the bike so we are looking to make the most of the last test and begin the year in the best way possible.”
Honda is looking to make a step back towards the front of the field following a couple of tough seasons, which has seen the manufacturer record just two wins in the past four seasons. Its last rider title came courtesy of Marc Marquez in 2019, but it has brought a raft of upgrades to start the term.
Alongside a new engine, which all its riders heaped praise on during the recent Sepang tests for its smoother power delivery, Honda has also brought a revised aerodynamic package and modifications to the chassis to try and make the bike easier to ride at the limit.
Honda will be hoping these upgrades will be enough to lift it from the bottom of the constructors where it ended last season, as well as secure its first win since the 2021 Emilia Romagna Grand Prix. LCR’s Alex Rins secured Honda’s sole 2023 win, the Spaniard conquering the Circuit of the Americas to emerge victorious in the Americas GP.
