LCR SIGN MOTO2 SUPERSTAR Somkiat Chantra FOR 2025
LCR Honda has officially announced that Moto2 star Somkiat Chantra will join its MotoGP line-up in 2025, replacing Takaaki Nakagami, who will step down from his full-time racing role to transition into a test rider position with Honda. Chantra’s promotion marks a significant step for the Thai rider, as he becomes the first from his country to race in the premier class.
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Currently competing in Moto2 with Honda Team Asia, Chantra is best known for his impressive victories, including a standout win at Honda's home circuit in Motegi last year. His strong performances, including a career-high sixth-place finish in the 2023 Moto2 championship, have demonstrated his potential to compete at the highest level of motorcycle racing. Chantra expressed his excitement about the opportunity, saying, "Joining LCR and racing in MotoGP is a dream come true. I am committed to learning, giving my maximum, and enjoying this new adventure."
Nakagami, who has been a staple of the LCR Honda team since 2018, will retire from full-time racing at the end of the 2024 season. Over his eight-year tenure in MotoGP, Nakagami has participated in over 100 races, highlighted by a pole position at Aragon in 2020. Although stepping back from racing, Nakagami will remain within the Honda family, playing a crucial role in the marque’s development team alongside Stefan Bradl and incoming test rider Aleix Espargaro. Nakagami will be primarily based in Japan but will also participate in select MotoGP rounds as a test rider.
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Reflecting on his career, Nakagami said, "I’ve decided to end my MotoGP career at the conclusion of the 2024 season. I’m grateful for the incredible support from fans, IDEMITSU, and Honda. I look forward to contributing to HRC’s future development and utilizing my experience from racing at this level."
LCR team principal Lucio Cecchinello praised Nakagami’s contributions, saying, “I want to thank Takaaki Nakagami for his outstanding commitment during the past seven seasons. We wish him the best in his next chapter with Honda.” He also expressed confidence in Chantra’s potential, adding, “It’s time to welcome a great Asian talent like Somkiat Chantra. He has shown the potential and skills to grow in MotoGP, and LCR, along with Honda, will support him throughout this journey.”
With Johann Zarco set to continue alongside Chantra, the LCR team is poised for a promising 2025 season, blending the experience of seasoned riders with emerging talent, marking a new era for the Honda-backed outfit.