After three years, Skyler Howes has departed Monster Energy Honda HRC.

“I have put my blood, sweat and tears into this team and will always look back, proud of the time that I spent here,” said Howes. “A huge thank you to everyone, the team managers, technicians, mechanics, and riders for their dedication and drive to push the limits and win in the most hostile conditions and gnarliest races on the planet. It’s been an honor.”

Howes joined Honda ahead of the 2023 Rallye du Maroc, moving over from Husqvarna. He finished seventh in the 2025 RallyGP standings with a best finish of fifth at the South African Safari Rally. His only stage win came in Stage 10 at the 2025 Dakar Rally, though he actually finished third that day behind two non-points riders.

2026 started on a solid note as he finished fourth at Dakar, this time securing a proper stage victory ahead of everyone else in Stage 11. However, he struggled to adjust to the forests of the Rally-Raid Portugal and was seventh in class. Howes’ final race with Honda was a fifth at the Desafío Ruta 40, which he raced while nursing a bruised thigh.

Honda released the following statement on Tuesday:

Monster Energy Honda HRC would like to thank Skyler Howes for his dedication, commitment, and professionalism during his three seasons with the team.

Since joining the squad, Skyler has been an important part of the RallyGP programme, contributing both on and off the bike with his determination, experience, and team spirit. Throughout his time with Monster Energy Honda HRC, he demonstrated consistency and resilience across the FIM World Rally-Raid Championship, representing the team at the highest level in some of the toughest races in the world.

One of the highlights of his journey came at the 2026 Dakar Rally, where he claimed his first stage victory with Monster Energy Honda HRC, adding another memorable achievement to the team’s history.

Skyler and Monster Energy Honda HRC follow different directions, Monster Energy Honda HRC would like to express its sincere appreciation for Skyler’s contribution over the past three years.

The entire team wishes Skyler every success in the next chapter of his career and thanks him for the commitment and passion he showed throughout his time wearing the Honda colours.

Featured image credit: Irina Petrichei / Edophoto / DPPI / ASO