Somkiat Chantra, a Thai rider, analyzes strategies to elevate performance at World Superbike 2026 Round 8 at Donington.
The World Superbike Championship 2026 Round 8 held its first race late Saturday night, 11 July, at Donington Park, United Kingdom. It was a highly challenging race for "Kong" Somkiat Chantra, a top Thai rider from the Honda HRC factory team, who was competing at this circuit for the first time in his career.
The Thai rider, piloting bike number 35, adapted steadily to the track and secured the 16th grid position, with his British teammate Jake Dixon, number 96, starting just behind in 17th.
However, both Honda HRC riders encountered traffic congestion at the first corner. "Kong" Somkiat gradually increased his speed but slipped into the gravel trap on the penultimate lap, yet managed to finish the race in 20th place, while Dixon finished 18th.
Honda HRC reported that the entire team is diligently analyzing all available data to find ways to improve the bike's performance for Sunday's Superpole race and Race 2.
"Kong" Somkiat Chantra said, "The first race at Donington Park was one of the toughest for me compared to the Superpole round. I am now analyzing everything with the team and will continue to fight on Sunday."
The World Superbike Championship 2026 Round 8 will hold the Superpole race on Sunday, 12 July at 17:10 Thai time, followed by Race 2 at 21:30 Thai time.