Honda has officially unveiled a new leadership structure for its factory MotoGP team, with Mikihiko Kawase set to take over as team manager while Alberto Puig transitions into a strategic advisory position.
The appointment marks a significant change for Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) as it prepares for one of the most important periods in modern MotoGP. Kawase, who most recently served as Honda's technical director, will now lead the factory squad as the manufacturer looks to strengthen its competitiveness ahead of the major regulation changes scheduled for 2027.
The decision follows weeks of speculation after Puig announced his intention to step away from his current role. While his responsibilities will change, the Spaniard will remain closely involved with Honda, providing guidance on team operations and supporting the company's European activities.
Puig's move ends a nine-year spell as the public face of Honda's MotoGP project. During that time, he oversaw some of the team's most successful years while also helping navigate challenging periods as Honda worked to regain its position at the front of the grid.
Honda's decision to promote from within highlights its confidence in Kawase's technical expertise and long-term understanding of the organisation.
Kawase's motorsport background extends beyond engineering. Before joining Honda Racing Corporation in 2012, he spent nearly a decade competing in Japan's smaller motorcycle racing categories and later gained experience working with major component suppliers.
After joining HRC, he became heavily involved in the Moto3 programme and played a key role in the team's success. As technical chief, he helped guide Lorenzo Dalla Porta to the 2019 Moto3 World Championship, a result that elevated his profile within the company.
His rise continued when he joined Honda's MotoGP project, eventually becoming technical director in 2024. The promotion to team manager is the latest step in a career built on both technical knowledge and racing experience.
Kawase and Puig have already been working closely together in recent months, representing Honda at important Motorcycle Sports Manufacturers Association (MSMA) meetings as the sport prepares for its next regulatory era.
"It is a great honour for me to have the opportunity to lead a team with such a rich history and so many achievements," Kawase said.
He also acknowledged the scale of the challenge ahead, particularly with the upcoming 2027 regulations, which are widely regarded as the biggest technical overhaul MotoGP has seen since the switch from two-stroke to four-stroke machinery.
Kawase added that the continued support of both Honda and Puig would be vital as the team works toward its future goals.
The restructuring demonstrates Honda's commitment to combining fresh leadership with experienced guidance. With Kawase taking charge of daily operations and Puig remaining involved in a strategic capacity, Honda hopes the new structure will provide stability and direction as it enters a crucial phase of development.
As MotoGP moves closer to a new technical era, Honda is placing its faith in one of its own to lead the project forward.
