The MotoGP rider market is heating up, and Fabio Quartararo is at the center of the buzz. Speculation has been rife about the 2021 World Champion potentially leaving Yamaha for Honda in 2027. Quartararo has now stepped forward to clarify the situation, confirming discussions while stressing that nothing is finalized.
Speaking from Sepang ahead of pre-season testing, Quartararo acknowledged that Honda is among the teams he is talking with. "The only thing I can confirm to you today is that we are talking with teams. Honda is one of them, but we have nothing signed yet," he said. He also emphasized that he is keeping his options open, including ongoing dialogue with Yamaha, and plans to carefully evaluate all possibilities before committing to any team for 2027.
The stakes are high, as the 2027 MotoGP season brings major technical changes. The introduction of smaller 850cc engines, reduced aerodynamics, and a ban on ride-height devices will significantly alter the competitive landscape. Quartararo acknowledged the uncertainty this creates for all riders and teams. "It's a gamble. It's a gamble for me, and it's a gamble for everybody," he explained, noting that while manufacturers may promise revolutionary projects, no one knows which bike will perform best under the new rules.
Quartararo also made it clear that his decisions are motivated by competition, not money. Reflecting on his emotional reaction to a technical failure at last year’s British Grand Prix, he said, "I want to win. You can see the emotion I had in Silverstone. It's not about money. It's about the happiness to be on top of the podium." For Quartararo, the thrill of victory and the pursuit of another MotoGP World Championship are more important than the largest paycheck.
