Honda’s Xavi Vierge says he had a clause in his contract with the Japanese manufacturing unit to proceed with it in 2026, however that the deadline for it to be activated has handed.
Vierge joined Honda in 2022 as a part of a then-all-new line-up with Iker Lecuona.
The 2 have been usually evenly matched for the three-and-a-half seasons they’ve spent collectively at HRC, however Vierge is now 22 factors forward of Lecuona within the 2025 championship.
But, the 28-year-old is and not using a trip for subsequent 12 months at current.
On Thursday in France, he revealed that there’s a clause in his present cope with Honda to proceed for 2026, however that the time for this clause to be activated by the Japanese model has handed.
“We all know the pace of Iker, since he arrived right here we had been each battling yearly,” Xavi Vierge stated, talking to WorldSBK.com.
“So, proper now I’m the very best Honda rider and the truth proper now’s that my future continues to be open.
“I had a clause with Honda, however this clause is already gone.
“So, they’re proud of me, however for some purpose they nonetheless want time – in fact, I don’t have way more time.
“So, I’m free now to talk to different factories and groups and I hope within the coming weeks I’ll shut my future.”
The Spanish rider stated his goal is to stay in World Superbike however that he’s additionally taking note of “different issues”.
“After all, my aim is to remain right here [in WorldSBK],” he stated.
“I do know the potential I’ve and I really feel I must be right here to show my pace.
“However I’m additionally listening to different issues simply in case.”
In the summertime break, Lecuona was capable of verify his personal 2026 future with Ducati. Vierge stated he expects Lecuona to contend for the title with the Panigale V4 R.
“I’m very completely happy for him [Lecuona],” he stated.
“He’s making a superb job and he received an excellent alternative for subsequent 12 months.
“I do know the pace of Iker and for positive he will likely be one of many title contenders.”
