Somkiat Chantra’s MotoGP comeback: Is Honda giving him a second chance?

On Tuesday, HRC announced that Honda factory rider Joan Mir will not be competing in the Japanese and Indonesian Grands Prix in early October. The Spaniard is suffering from a mysterious illness. MotoGP chief medical officer Dr Angel Charte has prescribed a 15-day rest period for him.

However, it is not yet clear what is ailing Joan Mir. “Due to his persistent symptoms and their severity, Mir underwent a series of tests at Dexeus University Hospital to establish a definitive diagnosis. In view of the symptoms, the medical advice is for him to take strict rest over the next 15 days and undergo various treatments. I have therefore advised him against taking part in the Japanese and Indonesian Grands Prix. My team will continue to monitor his condition closely,” said Dr Charte.

Former MotoGP rider Somkiat Chantra steps in

On 23 September, HRC announced that Somkiat Chantra would stand in for Joan Mir at the Japanese Grand Prix. Chantra, who competed in the premier class with LCR Honda during the 2025 season, moved to Honda’s factory Superbike team in 2026. He is now returning to the premier class at Motegi – a circuit that holds special significance for him, as it was there that he secured his memorable Moto2 victory in 2023.

In 2025, Chantra finished 15th in the Grand Prix at Motegi. It was one of the few race weekends where the Thai rider managed to score points. In total, he scored seven points in MotoGP last year. He finished 26th in the overall standings. His rookie year in the World Superbike Championship is also not going well. Chantra was injured as early as last season. He is also struggling with the underperforming Honda CBR1000RR. He currently lies 20th in the World Championship standings with ten points. His team-mate Jake Dixon, who has been sidelined by injury for a long time, is only 23rd.

Topic of the week

Spanish Grand Prix at the new Madring: track – hit or miss?

The people of Madrid had set their sights high for their city’s first Formula 1 World Championship race since 1981. But have the high expectations for the new Madring mixed-circuit track really been met?

Read More

TV Program

Tomorrow

Cremona: 1. Freies Training

FIM Superbike World Championship

25.09.2026 - 10:15