Kawase to lead Honda MotoGP as Puig shifts to adviser role

Honda has named Mikihiko Kawase as the next team manager of its factory MotoGP program, promoting the longtime Honda engineer from within and moving Alberto Puig into an advisory role starting in 2027. Honda said Kawase will take over at the end of the 2026 season, with the transition beginning at the start of 2027 as the company prepares for a major regulatory reset in MotoGP. Puig, who has led Honda’s MotoGP effort for nine years, will remain with the organization and continue to oversee its MotoGP and WorldSBK projects in a reduced, consultative capacity.

Honda passed over Trackhouse team principal Davide Brivio after considering both an interim arrangement and an external option. Brivio’s future responsibilities are expected to focus on marketing and business development. The appointment keeps Honda’s leadership in house and puts Kawase in charge as the company looks ahead to a season it sees as a turning point for the championship.

Kawase joined Honda Racing Corporation in 2012 and became Honda’s MotoGP technical manager in 2024. He previously led Honda’s Moto3 project and helped HRC win the 2019 Moto3 world title with Lorenzo Dalla Porta. Kawase, a former racer who competed in Japan’s lightweight classes from ages 18 to 27, said 2027 will be a landmark year because of the rule changes and said Honda needs to be prepared to fight at the front. Honda has not officially announced its 2027 factory riders, although Fabio Quartararo and David Alonso have been reported as targets, with Joan Mir and Luca Marini said to be in line to be replaced.