Spanish oil company Repsol has announced that it will no longer sponsor the Honda MotoGP team, concluding a significant partnership that has lasted for three decades. The decision, confirmed by Honda on September 8, 2024, marks the end of an iconic collaboration that began in 1995 when Repsol first entered into sponsorship with Honda as they ventured into Grand Prix racing.
During their partnership, Repsol and Honda achieved remarkable success, including 15 premier class world championships, 10 team championships, 183 race victories, and 455 podium finishes. Legendary riders such as Mick Doohan, Valentino Rossi, and Marc Marquez have all contributed to this impressive record.
In a statement, Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) acknowledged the long-standing relationship, stating, “Honda HRC and Repsol have enjoyed a partnership that has become synonymous with success at the highest level. Going beyond sponsorship, it has been a true collaboration between both companies, striving to continue as the reference in Grand Prix motorcycling.”
Despite their historical achievements, Honda has faced challenges in recent years, particularly after Marquez won his last title in 2019. The rider missed the entire 2020 season due to a crash and has struggled to regain his former dominance. Additionally, Marquez’s departure from Honda at the end of the 2023 season to join Gresini Racing, which utilizes Ducati machines, has further complicated the team’s competitive standing.
Following Marquez’s exit, Red Bull also severed its ties with Honda, and the team has struggled to secure top-10 finishes in the current MotoGP season, with riders Joan Mir and Luca Marini failing to deliver strong results.
