Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) has announced that Somkiat Chantra will not compete in the opening round of the 2026 World Superbike Championship, scheduled for February 20–22 at Phillip Island, Australia. The Thai rider’s absence stems from arm injuries sustained in a crash at Sepang earlier in January, which required surgery in Thailand.
Recovery and Replacement of Chantra in Season Opener
Chantra’s recovery delayed his anticipated WorldSBK debut, and he was already absent from the official preseason tests in Jerez and Portimao. Following medical evaluations at Bangkok Hospital on January 28, his cast was removed and his progress described as positive. However, his rehabilitation timeline prevents him from being race-ready for the first round.
In response, HRC confirmed that Tetsuta Nagashima, the official HRC test rider, will step in to replace Chantra for the Australian round. Alongside Nagashima, Jake Dixon will continue as an official rider for the Honda HRC factory team.
Additionally, British Honda BSB rider Ryan Vickers has received a wildcard entry to compete, marking his return to the WorldSBK grid at Phillip Island.
“Despite a positive recovery process, Somkiat Chantra will not be fit in time to participate in Round 1 of the Superbike World Championship, set to take place at Phillip Island, Australia, on 20–22 February 2026,”
HRC stated.
“Completing the Honda rider line-up for Round 1, British Honda BSB rider Ryan Vickers, will also take part as a wildcard entry.”
Outlook for Chantra’s WorldSBK Debut
With the opening round missed, Chantra’s first opportunity to race in the WorldSBK will now be at the second round in Portimao, Portugal, taking place from March 27 to 29. This delay adds uncertainty to his rookie season but allows him additional time to fully recover from his injuries before joining the championship grid.
