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Aleix Espargaro says Honda’s move up the MotoGP concessions ladder is only a first step, with category A firmly in the factory’s sights.
HRC test rider Aleix Espargaro is confident in Honda’s progress in MotoGP, aiming to climb from concession rank D to A in the future. Reaching rank A requires scoring at least 85% of the maximum constructors’ points over a year, a feat currently achieved only by Ducati.
Honda is the first manufacturer to move up the concessions ladder in the A-B-C-D system introduced in 2024, exceeding the threshold to join KTM and Aprilia in band C. Yamaha remains the only manufacturer in category D with full concessions.
The pivotal moment came in the Valencia season finale, where Luca Marini’s seventh-place finish pushed Honda over the threshold, marking a significant achievement for the team. Honda’s intense development efforts and commitment have been crucial in this advancement.
Espargaro emphasized the competitiveness in MotoGP, with various riders showing strength each weekend and the overall level of the field getting closer to Ducati. He also acknowledged the tireless work put in by the Honda team throughout the season to improve the RCV.
