Diogo Moreira is expected to stay with LCR Honda for the 2027 season, but team boss Lucio Cecchinello has not closed the door on a potential factory move.
The Brazilian is in a secure position heading into next season, having signed a three-year deal with LCR last year that keeps him under contract through to the end of 2028.
The agreement is linked directly to HRC, and that has led to talk about a possible promotion to the factory squad after just one season with the satellite outfit.
Moreira has been taking steps forward in his rookie campaign. He has spent time leaning on Marc Marquez for advice, and that guidance seems to be paying off.
He picked up points on his MotoGP debut with a P13 finish in Thailand, and his progress has not gone unnoticed. His current deal gives him a clear path into the factory setup if Honda decides he is ready, and Cecchinello has not ruled out an early switch.
Lucio Cecchinello says the plan is for Diogo Moreira to stay at LCR, but Honda have the final decision
With Fabio Quartararo already lined up to join Honda in 2027, the question now is who will be riding alongside him.
Luca Marini has been tipped to remain with the team, though there are rumours linking him with a move to Yamaha. Meanwhile, Joan Mir’s future remains unclear, which has brought Moreira into focus as a possible option for a factory seat.
Still, according to LCR boss Cecchinello, the current plan is for Moreira to remain with the satellite squad in 2027 – though he pointed out that Honda will make the final call.
“Diogo Moreira has a two-year contract with HRC with an option for a third season.
“This means he is tied to HRC. HRC has assigned him to my team for the 2026 season. So the reality is: yes, the plan is to continue with him in 2027, but the final decision rests with HRC,” he said.
When asked whether this could mean a factory seat for Moreira in practice, Cecchinello stated: “In theory, yes. In reality, we work closely with HRC. It’s not like I’m informed at the last minute and then have to panic and find a replacement.
“This would be a decision planned well in advance. And if something like that happens, HRC will certainly look for another driver.”
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