HRC remain confident in retaining Marc Marquez past 2024 despite performance concerns - 'Part of the Honda family'

HRC insist they are confident of retaining star rider Marc Marquez, despite concerns over the team's competitiveness. Koji Watanabe, the HRC president, has addressed ongoing speculation surrounding Marquez, saying that they remain supportive and consider Marquez an integral part of the Honda family. Ad The rider has at times shown frustration this season, which was visible again during last weekend’s Italian Grand Prix, as the Spaniard continues to battle with a bike that does not appear to be enabling his full potential.

Grand Prix FranceKalex chassis ‘a small help’ but 'not the solution’ — Marquez15/05/2023 AT 15:25 In a sign of his struggles, the eight-time world champion has crashed three times this term. However, the Spaniard has fought for a podium finish in the three races he’s failed to finish so far this season. “We still feel that Marc is part of the Honda family.

Of course, Honda respects the opinion of its riders. We do not feel any fear, but we will respect his decision,” Koji Watanabe told Marca on Marquez's contract renewal. Marquez is currently signed on until the end of 2024 in what is the highest-paid contract on the current grid.

Marquez on 'taking too much risk' and overcoming pain barrier to achieve greatness 'It is going to happen soon' — Wolff confident in finalising new Hamilton contract Watanabe also confirmed Honda’s hope to keep Marquez until he decides to retire, but said «there is no rush» to confirm agreements for a new deal. «We are always talking to each other. Good communication is important in the Honda family,» he added.