Valerio Lata and Honda HRC Petronas Part Ways

During last weekend’s Swedish Grand Prix in Uddevalla, information emerged suggesting that the upcoming Dutch Grand Prix in Arnhem could mark Valerio Lata’s final appearance in the colors of Honda HRC Petronas.

Update: Valerio Lata and HRC Part Ways

Valerio Lata will not travel with the team to the final three rounds of the 2026 World Motocross Championship. The Italian youngster, who is currently sitting eighth in the MX2 standings, instead ended his GP campaign in the Netherlands, all though he did successfully claim the Italian MX2 championship this past weekend.

«The team and I came to a decision to end the GP season after Arnhem, and although it would have been good to do the final races, I think that it is the best outcome for everyone. This season hasn’t gone exactly as I would have liked and the three final races are very intensive for the team, so we made this decision together. It is a shame because the podium in Australia last year was a good memory for me, but I believe this is the right choice. I am proud to have won the Italian MX2 Championship last weekend, and it is one of many great moments I have had riding for Honda HRC PETRONAS these past couple of years.»

For several months, speculation has linked the Italian rider with a move to Red Bull KTM De Carli, and that possibility now appears increasingly likely. Although Lata still had one year remaining on his contract with the Japanese manufacturer, he is believed to have agreed to terminate the deal in order to accept an offer from the Italian KTM squad. If confirmed, Arnhem would serve as his farewell event with Honda HRC Petronas.

An early departure would also allow the team to reduce travel and logistical costs for the final three overseas rounds of the season, which will take place in Turkey, China, and Australia.

Lata’s premature exit could also have implications for his potential selection for the Motocross of Nations. Without the support of Honda HRC Petronas, his place in Italy’s MX2 line-up will fill-in by Ferruccio Zanchi.

Lata’s 2026 Season

The 2026 campaign marks Valerio Lata’s second season with Honda and his second full year in the FIM MX2 World Championship. Over the past two seasons, the Italian has established himself as a consistent top-ten contender, highlighted by his Qualifying Race victory at the 2025 German Grand Prix.

However, he has yet to make the final step toward becoming a regular podium challenger and race-winning threat. Even so, his steady development has made him one of the most promising young riders in the MX2 paddock, attracting the attention of several top teams and making a potential move to Red Bull KTM De Carli one of the most talked-about stories of the current transfer market.

Valerio Lata´s 2026 MX2 World Championship Results

*Best season result