Joan Mir Set for Sepang Comeback as Honda Confirms Recovery Progress
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Joan Mir, sidelined since his abrupt retirement from the San Marino GP on September 13 due to unexplained health issues, is reportedly on track to return at the Sepang Grand Prix. The Repsol Honda rider withdrew before completing five laps at Misano, citing a lack of strength and energy, with his condition sparking immediate concern within the team.
Following Mir’s withdrawal, Honda revealed that blood tests indicated “altered parameters” necessitating further medical investigations. This led to his absence from the Austrian GP and subsequent announcements that he would miss the Japanese and Indonesian rounds. MotoGP’s medical director Ángel Charte disclosed that Mir had been enduring symptoms eroding his energy and performance for several months, with no definitive diagnosis yet, recommending rest and additional tests.
Despite these setbacks, Honda’s team manager Alberto Puig
Despite these setbacks, Honda’s team manager Alberto Puig provided a beacon of hope ahead of the Sepang race weekend. Speaking to MotoGP’s international broadcast, Puig stated, “I don’t want to give guarantees or promises, but normally he should be returning in Sepang.” He elaborated on Mir’s struggles, “He started feeling unwell in Misano; the boy didn’t feel good at all. Blood tests and numerous examinations revealed some issues. But it seems he has been working very hard with the doctors and now has the green light for Sepang.”
Honda’s challenges have not been limited to Mir’s absence. Luca Marini was forced to sit out Australia’s FP1 due to a virus, while test riders Aleix Espargaró and Takaaki Nakagami have battled injuries. Puig acknowledged the team’s string of misfortunes but reassured that development of the 2027 prototype remains largely on schedule. “We made a good test in Austria with three riders who know the bike well; we gathered important data and tested tyres. Although it’s not ideal, this situation is not the end of the world,” he admitted.
In parallel, Honda has confirmed Diogo Moreira for its official 2027 lineup and announced David Alonso’s arrival in MotoGP with LCR. Puig highlighted the strategic benefits of this setup: “Diogo has a year of experience and showed good potential, while David faces a tough rookie season. Alonso will receive the same treatment as factory riders like Johann Zarco, with identical machinery and support, but with slightly less pressure.”
Puig concluded on an optimistic note about Honda’s
Puig concluded on an optimistic note about Honda’s rider roster balance: “We have two young talents and two experienced riders. We’re happy and now we need to deliver a good bike.” With Mir’s expected return at Sepang, Honda aims to regain momentum after a turbulent period marked by health setbacks and injuries across its ranks.
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