P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Joan Mir reflects on a “key” MotoGP season for Honda and a return to his natural, but high-risk, braking style.
Former MotoGP champion Joan Mir made a triumphant return to the premier-class podium with Honda this season, almost four years after his final Suzuki podium. There were moments when Mir doubted if the achievement would ever materialize, after only two top ten finishes in two years with Honda before 2025. The season started slowly for Mir, with just one finish in the opening six races due to a combination of bad luck and challenges with the bike. However, a turning point came after Honda introduced aerodynamic and engine upgrades at Barcelona, allowing Mir to showcase his true potential. Mir’s highlight of the season came with podium finishes at Motegi and Sepang, where he had to push the limits and adapt his riding style to overcome the historically challenging conditions. Mir’s late-braking prowess in the Malaysian Grand Prix impressed fans, showcasing his natural style of aggressive riding that he had to restrain during his Suzuki years. Mir’s return to his natural style with Honda proved challenging but rewarding, allowing him to push the bike to its limits while thrilling fans on the track.
