Jeffrey Herlings Joins Honda HRC for 2026 MXGP Season
In a significant move for the MXGP series, five-time world champion Jeffrey Herlings will compete aboard a Honda HRC factory motorcycle starting in 2026. Herlings, renowned for his exceptional talent and record of 112 Grand Prix victories, brings a wealth of experience to the Honda team, following an impressive 17-year tenure with KTM.
Herlings, currently recovering from injuries, recently engaged in extensive testing with HRC technicians in Spain. The team, led by owner Giacomo Gariboldi, has invested heavily in this partnership, bringing in around 25 personnel, including 15 technicians from Japan, to facilitate an intensive testing regime.
During a recent interview with MXLarge, Herlings expressed his enthusiasm about the transition: “Leaving KTM is weird because I spent almost my entire career there. Honda is a special team with a rich history of champions. I’ve never seen anything like this in terms of professionalism and support.”
Herlings provided insights into the technical performance of the Honda. Although he did not test the bike before signing due to an injury, he noted a marked difference in handling compared to the KTM. The Dutch rider stated, “The turning of the Honda is unreal,” while acknowledging that the KTM’s engine power remains formidable. He remarked, “In the sand, the stock KTM definitely had a bit more power… but the Honda’s handling is exceptional.”
This collaborative effort with Honda marks a critical juncture in Herlings’ career. A successful season in 2026 could position him with a sixth world title, tying him with Joel Robert and closely trailing only legends Antonio Cairoli and Stefan Everts.
Herlings’ ambitions remain high, as he aims not only to enhance his racing legacy but also to leverage Honda’s advanced engineering capabilities for optimal performance on the track.
