Marquez Still Absent, Honda Lowers WSBK Racer at Jerez

, . – Honda has confirmed that its flagship racer, Marc Marquez, will be absent from the next race in the series, this weekend’s Spanish GP. As a replacement, Honda appointed WSBK racer Iker Lecuona in the race which was held at the Jerez Circuit.

“Marc Marquez will continue his recovery from the broken first metacarpal of his right hand he suffered at the Portuguese Grand Prix. For the Spanish Grand Prix, he will be replaced by Iker Lecuona,” Honda wrote in an official statement.

The eight-time world champion is expected to return at the French GP, May 12-14. Meanwhile, Iker Lecuna is also no stranger to MotoGP.

The 23-year-old racer previously raced in the MotoGP class in the 2019-2021 season with the KTM team. His best record is finishing in 6th place at the 2021 Austrian GP.

Lecuna has joined the HRC team in the WSBK event since the 2022 season, and once felt the podium when racing at the 2021 Dutch GP.

“First I want to wish Marc all the best in his recovery, he was a reference in MotoGP and I think not only the fans but also the riders will miss him a lot,” said Lecuna.

“For me, of course, this is a great opportunity to return to MotoGP and race for my dream team. To do it in front of a Spanish crowd is something special,” he added.

However, the racer born in Valencia admitted that he did not set high targets. Honda itself this season has won its first series victory through Alex Rins at the American GP.

“We have to be realistic, it’s going to be a very tough and demanding weekend. I’ve spent this season and the previous season completely focused on WorldSBK with Team HRC. Now I have to get used to everything that’s different in MotoGP, as well as learn a new bike, the Honda RC213V,” said Lecuna.

“Whatever happens, I will do my best and let’s see what happens.”

The Jerez circuit itself is one of Honda’s favorite circuits. Since being held in 1987, the 4.42-kilometer circuit has seen Honda win in 22 premier-class Grand Prix races.