P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Honda relocates HRC general manager Kuwata out of MotoGP project
The recent development in the ongoing restructuring of the Japanese brand suggests that the departure of Kuwata may not mark the conclusion of the transformation process, as he is set to transition to HRC’s car division before stepping down on 1 April. Taichi Honda, hailing from the off-road department and formerly overseeing the Dakar Rally team, will assume Kuwata’s position. While Honda underlines that the reorganization is not solely motivated by the underperformance of its MotoGP teams in recent years, the dwindling athletic achievements and Marquez’s exit likely played a part in the decision-making. Honda’s performance has been declining, experiencing its last victory with Alex Rins at the 2023 United States Grand Prix, finishing last in the constructors’ standings, and only securing two podium finishes that year. The departure of Kuwata further signifies the brand’s strategic overhaul within MotoGP, as key personnel like Kokubu and Yokoyama have also recently reassigned roles in this quest to restore Honda’s dominance in the sport. Mir and Marini are gearing up to address the ongoing challenges with the RC213V ahead of the upcoming 2024 MotoGP season, aiming to overcome the persistent traction issues plaguing the team.
