In a surprising move from the MotoGP paddock, Honda has officially announced that Somkiat Chantra will replace Joan Mir for the upcoming Japanese and Indonesian Grands Prix. The decision comes after Mir's physical condition continued to raise concerns.
Mir voluntarily withdrew from the San Marino GP and missed the last round in Austria due to health issues. Following a brief statement from Honda that included comments from Dr. Angel Charte, MotoGP Medical Director, regarding Mir's condition, the Japanese manufacturer decided to compete without the 2020 world champion at Motegi and Mandalika.
Chantra's Return to the Premier Class
The choice fell to Somkiat Chantra, not test rider Takaaki Nakagami who filled in at Austria. Chantra is currently racing in WorldSBK, but he will return to MotoGP after a one-year absence. The 27-year-old Thai rider previously scored two Moto2 wins, with his last victory coming in Japan.
Last season, Chantra made history as the first Thai rider to finish in the points in MotoGP, precisely at Motegi. Now, he gets another chance to prove himself in the top class, though he must quickly adapt to the RC213V which is still under development.
For Honda, Chantra's presence at these two Asian rounds could serve as an evaluation opportunity. It is still unknown when Mir will return, but he must focus on recovery. Meanwhile, Chantra will try to make the most of this opportunity to showcase his abilities at the highest level.
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