P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Honda signs Marini as Marquez replacement in MotoGP
Luca Marini has announced his departure from Honda at the end of the 2023 season to join Gresini Ducati, ending his 11-year partnership with Honda. Honda initially considered Miguel Oliveira as a replacement for Marquez but couldn’t finalize a deal due to a one-year contract offer. Fabio Di Giannantonio and Pol Espargaro were also considered, but Espargaro chose to remain with KTM as a test rider. Ultimately, Honda offered Marini a two-year deal to join its factory team for the 2024 season alongside Joan Mir. Marini will have his first test with Honda at the post-season Valencia test, where Marc Marquez will also make his debut with Ducati. It is expected that Di Giannantonio will join the VR46 squad to replace Marini in the 2024 season.
