Honda Eyes European Expansion: A New Milan Base Could Entice MotoGP’s Fabiano Sterlacchini Away from KTM

Is a new European headquarters for Honda likely to attract the former KTM technical chief?

Honda may follow Yamaha's lead by setting up a MotoGP design center in Europe?

Citing the significant distance between Italy and Austria as a key factor, KTM's inability to secure a renewed contract with Fabiano Sterlacchini has led to speculation that his next move will likely involve a MotoGP project centered in Italy.

Companies with ties to Italy encompass not just Sterlacchini's previous company, Ducati, but also Aprilia, along with Yamaha, which has been expanding the design roles of its Milan headquarters.

Honda, on the other hand, appeared to be out of contention, as it only possesses a logistical hub in Spain for its European operations, while the development work on the RC213V is carried out in Japan.

However, as per Speedweek.com, this situation might see a transformation with the proposed establishment of a new HRC European headquarters in Milan.

This positions Sterlacchini, formerly the Vice President of Technology in Road Racing at KTM, as a possible contender, with rumors connecting him to HRC during the MotoGP weekend in Austria.

Stefan Bradl, a test rider for the factory, cautioned in an interview with Speedweek against discounting Honda, noting that despite its ongoing struggles and position at the end of the constructors' rankings, the RC213V should not be overlooked.

"Bradl mentioned, 'Honda is indeed taking action; it's not as if they're idle.'"

Consider Honda's historical accomplishments. Additionally, it required a span of twelve years for Ducati to reclaim the world championship title and secure a riders' title following Stoner's victory.

It's important not to overlook Honda's potential, a reminder that it's unwise for anyone to ignore the obvious. There will be a time when an event of significance occurs once more.

In recent comments to Crash.net, Yamaha's leader Lin Jarvis had earlier minimized the likelihood of Sterlacchini coming on board with the M1 initiative.

"Currently, we are not looking for someone who matches Fabiano's qualifications, but I appreciate our great personal connection and hope for his success in what comes next."

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