MotoGP, Honda dances samba: Alberto Puig wants Diogo Moreira in LCR

Diogo Moreira is the new hot name in the paddock, and it looks like the winner of the Austrian Grand Prix is destined to switch to the MotoGP next year, signing a contract directly with Honda and in the LCR team. The Brazilian rider from the Italtrans team was identified by Alberto Puig as Somkiat Chantra's replacement in 2026. The Thai rider is having a disappointing debut season in the premier class and, as if that weren't enough, it was marked by injuries and physical problems. It's hard to give him another chance.

The problem was Idemitsu, sponsor of one half of Lucio Cecchinello's team, which has always favored Asian riders. But an exception seems possible, and Puig is working to make the deal happen.

Moreira (currently 3rd in the Moto2 World Championship, 35 points behind Gonzalez) is an interesting rider for many reasons. He's young (21 years old) and Brazilian. The MotoGP needs to diversify the passports of its riders, especially when it comes to South America. In 2026, the Brazilian GP will be on the calendar, and Buenos Aires is scheduled to be added for 2027. However, it's not just about nationality because Diogo is a talent, and Honda needs to focus on young riders for its future. After losing Ogura, the move to choose Chantra proved too risky, and the Brazilian is certainly more ready for the big leap.

After his victory at the Red Bull Ring, Moreira had stated that he preferred to enter the MotoGP "in an official team, but the important thing is to sign a long contract so that there's no pressure." The Brazilian rider has clear ideas and could be accommodated. He'd be arriving in the premier class with a satellite team but with a direct multi-year contract with HRC. Not to mention that, in 2027, the line-up is set to receive more of a shake up. and the doors to the factory team could open. That sounds like a solution where everyone would be happy.

After all, even Yamaha had thought about Moreira for Pramac although, having two rookies (the other is Razgatlioglu), would've been risky. It's safer to keep Jack Miller, an experienced rider who could help in the development of the new bike with the V4 engine.