Honda names Mikihiko Kawase MotoGP team manager for 2027

Honda Racing Corporation has confirmed Mikihiko Kawase as the new team manager for its factory Castrol MotoGP team, effective at the start of the 2027 season. Kawase, currently the team's technical director, will replace Alberto Puig, who will transition into an advisory role supporting both Honda's MotoGP and World Superbike projects.

The announcement, made on Thursday, June 18, 2026, formalizes a leadership transition that had been anticipated since Puig's future advisory role was confirmed a month ago. Kawase, a longtime Honda employee with a deep technical background, will take charge of the team as it prepares for a pivotal season. The 2027 MotoGP championship will introduce the most significant regulatory changes since the sport switched from two-stroke to four-stroke engines.

Kawase expressed gratitude for the opportunity. He stated he is honored to lead a team with such a rich history and track record, thanking Honda and Puig, whom he described as a great mentor and advisor for many years. Kawase emphasized that the support of both will be crucial to the team's future success. He added that inside Honda, the team must continue to give its maximum to start the new era...