It seemed somewhat inevitable… As Honda’s continued decline in MotoGP shows little sign of turning around – the Japanese marque will no longer enjoy the backing of the Spanish petroleum company from 2025 onwards, marking the end of a 30-year partnership.
Since 1995, the words Repsol and Honda have rolled off the tongue together with relative ease and the partnership has been one of the most successful in sporting history, spawning multiple championships with MotoGP legends Mick Doohan, Alex Criville, Valentino Rossi, Nicky Hayden, Casey Stoner and Marquez.
However, despite enjoying 15 titles together, Honda hasn’t picked up a win since 2021, and the reduced Repsol branding on this year’s machines was a sign of the relationship coming to an end amid the Japanese marque’s poor form.
A statement from the Spanish petroleum company read: “Repsol is grateful for HRC’s commitment and dedication during all these years in which we have worked together.
“The multi-energy company will continue to be linked to motor racing to continue developing products and services of the highest quality.”
HRC wrote, “Honda HRC and Repsol have enjoyed a partnership which has become synonymous with success at the highest level.
“Going beyond sponsorship, it has been a true collaboration between both companies, striving to continue as the reference in Grand Prix motorcycling.
“Honda HRC wishes Repsol all the best in their future business and sporting ventures.”
Honda is currently last in the MotoGP Constructors’ standings with 37 points. Ducati leads with 463, KTM is second with 234, Aprilia is third with 224 and Yamaha is fourth with 72 points.
