Honda rider Joan Mir confirmed that the factory team’s decision to let him and Luca Marini test the 2027 MotoGP machine and Pirelli tyres at Brno was a “smart move.”
Factory Riders Get Early Access to 2027 Prototype
During the Czech Grand Prix weekend, Mir highlighted how the two factory riders have spent four years shaping the current Honda, describing the present bike as the best the marque has produced in recent years.
Mir added that the team’s willingness to involve its departing riders in the testing programme outweighs any risk of them gaining an advantage from an earlier start to the next season.
Mir Defends the Decision and Acknowledges the Tyre Benefit
While anticipating a 2027 move to Gresini Ducati, Mir noted that candid input from experienced riders is indispensable for developing the forthcoming Pirelli tyre package.
“The more riders who can test, the more accurate the data delivered to Pirelli,” Mir said, echoing Bagnaia’s earlier stance that rider experience drives tyre readiness.
Assessment of Potential Disadvantage for Non‑Tested Riders
When asked whether riders excluded from the early Brno test would suffer setbacks, Mir expressed little concern. He underlined the ability of modern riders to adapt quickly, asserting that the primary benefit lies in providing Pirelli with robust information.
Jack Miller’s Rejection Highlights Team Politics
Jack Miller, the Aussie Pramac Yamaha rider, declined an invitation to join the test, citing the lack of a contract as a factor. He expressed frustration that the team saw no value in his long‑standing willingness to run setups for teammates and test adjustments.
Miller’s stance underscores the nuance of team dynamics as the season moves toward the end.
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