Balaton, Hungary – August 21, 2025 – For the first time since 2023, the MotoGP World Championship welcomes a brand-new circuit as Balaton Park in Hungary hosts Round 14 of the season. It also marks the sport’s long-awaited return to Hungary after 33 years, with the 4.08 km track promising a tight, technical challenge for riders.

The Honda HRC Castrol Team arrives in Hungary with optimism, as Joan Mir and Luca Marini look to carry forward their strong form from Austria into unfamiliar territory. With seven right-hand bends and ten left-hand corners, Balaton Park is expected to test adaptability, bike setup, and rider focus to the fullest.

Marini Targets Consistency

Currently 15th in the World Championship with 55 points, Luca Marini has been a model of consistency. Fresh off post-summer upgrades debuted in Austria, the Italian is keen to maximise their potential in Hungary. Known for finding his rhythm quickly on Fridays, Marini is confident that Balaton Park offers a chance to secure another double-digit points finish.

“At the moment I think we are able to find a good level quite early in the weekend, so at a new track we should be able to take advantage of that. Placing ourselves better on the grid will be a key focus,” said Marini.

Mir Eyes Another Breakthrough

2020 World Champion Joan Mir arrives buoyed by his sixth-place finish in Austria, his best form yet with Honda. Notably, Mir’s adaptability shone at the 2023 Indian GP, the last time MotoGP debuted at a new track, where he claimed an impressive fifth. That experience makes him a rider to watch this weekend.

“Hungary looks much tighter and more technical than Austria. A new track means new opportunities and I think it can help us be closer to the front again. It’s always enjoyable to visit new places and meet new fans,” Mir said.

A Weekend of Unknowns

With only limited testing by the Honda HRC Test Team, Balaton Park presents a number of unknowns. But for Honda HRC Castrol, it’s a chance to build on recent progress and give fans a strong performance in Hungary.

As MotoGP breaks new ground in Hungary, the scene is set for an exciting battle, with Mir and Marini determined to keep the momentum alive for Honda HRC Castrol.