P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Will private test provide Honda with much-needed Portugal MotoGP boost?
Despite making significant changes to its bike for the 2024 season, Honda’s gap to the leaders remained the same during the start of the campaign in Qatar, where Johann Zarco finished 12th as the top RC213V rider. Joan Mir placed 13th for the factory team while Marini struggled and finished in 20th place. Honda has begun utilizing its concession benefits this year, with testing at Jerez earlier this week for the factory team and Marini. Marini expressed satisfaction with the testing, mentioning that they found a promising base setup for the bike at Jerez. Both Marini and Mir are optimistic about potential improvements in Portugal, with Mir mentioning the base setup from Qatar and testing by Stefan Bradl as factors that may help Honda move forward. Mir is curious to see how they will perform at the Portugal track and is hopeful for a stronger showing in the European races.
