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Honda select David Alonso as Fabio Quartararo’s 2027 MotoGP teammate

Originally posted on HITC | By Kyle Archer | Last updated Mar 31, 2026 11:47 AM ET

Honda have chosen Moto2 talent David Alonso to complete their 2027 factory rider line-up, ahead of Fabio Quartararo’s arrival from Yamaha next season.

Honda took advantage of Yamaha’s early engine struggles by moving quickly to secure the Frenchman. The club had reportedly committed as far back as January and is expected to sign him to a two-year deal.

While Quartararo’s move came early in the market, Honda waited until later on to make their decision. They wanted time to assess how Joan Mir and Luca Marini would perform in this year’s MotoGP championship.

Both riders are set to be out of contract at the end of the season. And while Honda have Johann Zarco and rookie Diogo Moreira under factory deals through at least 2027, it looks like they’re set on bringing in Alonso from Moto2.

David Alonso set to join Honda as final piece of 2027 MotoGP factory lineup

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Reports out of Spain, specifically from AS, indicate that CFMoto’s current Moto2 pairing will both be making the jump to MotoGP for the 2027 season. Alonso is expected to partner Quartararo at Honda, while Daniel Holgado appears to be on his way to Gresini.

Alonso has been linked with a move up for some time. The CFMoto team are already planning ahead by promoting Maximo Quiles from their Moto3 squad. Since clinching the 2024 Moto3 title with an impressive 14 wins in a single season, his path seemed clear.

The following year, he added a win at the Hungarian Grand Prix during Balaton Park’s debut appearance on the calendar. As of now, Alonso is seventh in the standings and has recorded back-to-back points finishes after an early retirement in Thailand.

David Alonso’s 2027 MotoGP interest goes beyond Honda

Ducati and KTM had also shown interest in the young rider. There were even suggestions that Honda considered placing Alonso with Gresini, their satellite Ducati team, before deciding to bring him directly into the factory setup.

Ducati had been tracking Alonso closely, while KTM boss Pit Beirer confirmed they were also in talks with both Alonso and Daniel Holgado. However, reports suggested that Alonso’s wage demands far exceeded what Ducati were prepared to offer.

It’s likely the opportunity to move straight into a factory seat alongside former champion Quartararo played a role in his decision. Honda also have a financial edge over both Ducati and KTM, which may have helped seal the deal.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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