Honda is preparing for a significant change to its MotoGP line-up in 2027, with Diogo Moreira reportedly set to move from LCR to the factory Honda HRC team, while David Alonso is expected to take his place at LCR.
The reported decision would see Moreira partner former world champion Fabio Quartararo, who has already agreed to join Honda from Yamaha for the 2027 and 2028 seasons. Meanwhile, Alonso is expected to make his MotoGP debut with LCR alongside Johann Zarco.
Although Honda had previously confirmed multi-year agreements with both young riders, their respective teams for 2027 remained undecided. Recent reports from Italy suggest the manufacturer has now settled on its preferred arrangement, with an official announcement expected soon.
Moreira's promotion would reward an encouraging debut season in the premier class. The Brazilian joined LCR in 2026 after winning the Moto2 world championship in 2025, having established himself as one of the sport's most promising young talents.
His performances have improved throughout his rookie campaign, with his first MotoGP sprint podium at the Japanese Grand Prix in Motegi providing a major highlight. He also impressed during a test at Austria's Red Bull Ring, where he reportedly set the fastest overall time on the new 850cc motorcycle being developed for the 2027 regulations.
These performances are believed to have strengthened Honda's confidence in promoting Moreira to its factory squad. His progress has also drawn praise from former MotoGP rider Cal Crutchlow, who previously argued that the Brazilian deserved the opportunity ahead of Alonso because of his results against more experienced premier-class riders.
If confirmed, Moreira's promotion would mark an important step in his development, placing him alongside Quartararo as Honda prepares for a new technical era in 2027. The championship will introduce 850cc engines and a revised technical framework, creating a fresh challenge for manufacturers and riders alike.
For Alonso, a move to LCR would offer a more gradual route into MotoGP. The Colombian rider won the Moto3 world championship in 2024 and stepped up to Moto2 the following season. Honda announced his multi-year agreement in July 2026, confirming that he would join its premier-class programme from 2027. However, his destination within the Honda structure had not been officially specified at the time.
Despite joining a satellite team, Alonso is reportedly expected to receive factory-spec machinery, allowing him to benefit from Honda's latest technical developments. This would give him a competitive package for his rookie campaign while allowing him time to adapt to the demands of MotoGP.
Zarco, meanwhile, is expected to remain at LCR for 2027, providing experience as the team prepares to integrate another young rider into its line-up.
Honda's reported decision reflects the different stages of the two riders' careers. Moreira has already demonstrated his ability to compete against established MotoGP names, while Alonso will need to translate his success in the smaller classes into results at the highest level.
With the 2027 season set to usher in a new era for MotoGP, Honda's planned line-up would combine Quartararo's championship-winning experience with Moreira's rapid development at the factory team, while giving Alonso the opportunity to build his premier-class career with LCR.