P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Marini urges patience at Honda as new MotoGP season approaches
Honda is striving to end a recent winless streak, not having won a race in two years and lacking a title since 2019. Despite improvements in the 2024 RC213 model, Honda still trails behind competitors as the new season approaches. Luca Marini, a member of the Repsol Honda Team, expressed satisfaction with the progress made during testing but acknowledged the significant gap to be bridged, especially when it comes to utilizing new soft tires effectively. Marini remains optimistic, urging Honda to remain patient as progress will eventually come. The team faces challenges primarily with rear grip, affecting braking performance and overall lap times, calling for focused improvement in this area to enhance competitiveness. Honda will have the opportunity to test freely and upgrade its engine throughout the season under concession rules, aiming to address performance shortcomings and make strides towards success.
