News Summary
- Somkiat Chantra will ride Honda’s factory RC213V at the Japanese GP.
- Joan Mir will miss Japan and Indonesia because of persistent, undiagnosed health problems.
- Chantra is only confirmed for Motegi, with a WorldSBK clash complicating Honda’s plans for Mandalika.
Honda has confirmed Somkiat Chantra’s return to MotoGP for the Japanese GP. The Thai rider will replace Joan Mir aboard the factory RC213V at Motegi.
It will be Chantra’s first appearance in the championship since completing the 2025 season with LCR Honda. He became Thailand’s first full-time MotoGP rider but endured an injury-disrupted rookie campaign, scoring six points before losing his seat to Diogo Moreira.
Honda kept Chantra within its racing structure and transferred him to the factory WorldSBK team for 2026. His adaptation to the CBR1000RR-R was also delayed by injuries suffered during pre-season testing, although he has since recorded seven points-scoring finishes.
Motegi offers familiar territory for the 27-year-old. Chantra won the 2023 Moto2 Japanese GP and will now make his factory Honda MotoGP debut at the manufacturer’s home event.
Honda’s choice also allows Takaaki Nakagami to maintain his previously scheduled wildcard programme with the HRC Test Team. The Japanese rider will therefore compete on a separate development bike rather than replacing Mir.
Mir has been ruled out of both Japan and Indonesia after experiencing symptoms that have affected his energy and performance for several months. Tests conducted at Barcelona’s Hospital Universitari Dexeus have not yet produced a conclusive diagnosis, and doctors prescribed 15 days of complete rest and treatment.
According to Motorsport.com and Crash.net, Chantra’s replacement appearance is currently limited to Japan. The Indonesian GP takes place on the same weekend as WorldSBK’s Estoril round, where Chantra is expected to fulfil his factory Honda commitments. HRC will consequently need another solution for Mandalika unless those plans change.
The Japanese GP takes place at Motegi from 2–4 October. Sunday’s MotoGP race begins at 06:00 UK time.
FAQ
Why is Somkiat Chantra replacing Joan Mir?
Mir has been medically advised to miss the Japanese and Indonesian GPs while doctors investigate persistent health symptoms.
When did Chantra last race in MotoGP?
Chantra completed the 2025 MotoGP season with LCR Honda before moving to Honda’s factory WorldSBK programme.
Will Chantra also replace Mir in Indonesia?
It has not been confirmed. The Indonesian GP clashes with WorldSBK’s Estoril round, making Chantra’s participation at Mandalika unlikely unless Honda changes its plans.
