Somkiat Chantra makes a historic comeback, selected to join the Honda HRC factory team to compete in MotoGP at Motegi, Japan.
"Kong" Somkiat Chantra, a favorite among Thai fans, has been officially confirmed to return to MotoGP. He will race with the Honda HRC Castrol factory team at the 16th round, the Japanese Grand Prix, held at Mobility Resort Motegi, Japan, from 2 to 4 October.
The Thai rider, who races with number 35 and currently competes in the 2026 World Superbike Championship with Honda HRC, has been trusted to replace Joan Mir, the main Spanish rider wearing number 36 for Honda HRC Castrol, who is currently undergoing treatment for illness.
Somkiat Chantra achieved a remarkable performance at Mobility Resort Motegi by making history with a Moto2 victory in 2023, setting the all-time fastest lap record. He also secured pole position, led every lap, and won the race at that circuit. To this day, the fastest race lap record in Moto2 at this venue remains held by the Thai rider.
Moreover, Mobility Resort Motegi is among the circuits where the Thai rider performed well in the 2025 MotoGP season. He consistently improved his speed throughout the weekend, competed strongly within the mid-group, and ultimately earned points by finishing 15th in the main race.