Luca Marini Welcomes Aleix Espargaro’s Potential Move as Honda Test Rider Amid Team’s Struggle for Competitiveness

Luca Marini acknowledges that bringing Aleix Espargaro on board as a test rider for Honda might be an excellent move.

Luca Marini has experienced significant challenges at Honda throughout 2024, facing difficulties in competing with the majority of the MotoGP lineup, including his Honda teammates.

The ex-Ducati competitor has faced challenges in maximizing the performance of his RC213V, a situation that doesn't come as a shock, given that Joan Mir, Johann Zarco, and Takaaki Nakagami have similarly encountered significant difficulties.

The RC213V still holds the position of the least speedy motorcycle in the competition, as efforts for enhancements persist.

Nonetheless, Honda has experienced a sluggish and challenging advancement, which has led to speculation about the potential recruitment of Aleix Espargaro as a test rider to inject some excitement.

Espargaro seems poised to team up with the Japanese bike maker, as Aprilia suggested his departure last weekend at the Italian MotoGP event in Mugello.

Espargaro, who triumphed in the Catalunya sprint race recently, is poised to contribute significantly with the expertise he gained at Aprilia, now owners of one of the premier motorcycles in the competition.

Eager to welcome Espargaro into the team, Marini recently expressed to Spanish publication AS, stating, "I'm not aware of any details, but if it happens to be true, that would be fantastic.

Ultimately, Aleix is a seasoned rider. He's spent several years with Aprilia and is well-versed in its intricacies.

"We're counting on him to possibly bring along some documents or a secret surprise (chuckles)."

Ultimately, while the rider can describe their feelings and provide guidance, it's up to the engineers to design and construct the motorcycle.

At present, Stefan Bradl serves as the factory's test rider. However, with the anticipated addition of Espargaro, Honda might be initiating a significant move towards their comeback.

"Should he take on the role of test rider, he'd be an ideal fit," Marini remarked. "Under those circumstances, my only regret would be for Stefan [Bradl], given our strong rapport."

"However, he might also remain, given that, as an instance, KTM currently employs three separate test riders."

"Additionally, there's a possibility they might collaborate with us. Now that you've mentioned it, I'll discuss the matter with Honda to understand their intentions."

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