In a historic moment for Thai motorsport, Somkiat Chantra has been confirmed as Thailand’s first MotoGP rider, signing with LCR Honda for the 2025 season. The announcement marks a significant milestone for the 25-year-old, who will join Johann Zarco as his team-mate. Succeeding Takaaki Nakagami, who concludes his seven-year stint with LCR at the Valencia Grand Prix.
“I’m thrilled to join the LCR team,” Chantra said. “Stepping into MotoGP has always been my dream, and I’m excited to make it a reality. Furthermore, I want to extend my gratitude to all sponsors and supporters who have been with me from the start of my career.”
Chantra’s journey to MotoGP began in the Asia Talent Cup and the CEV Moto3 Junior World Championship. His standout performance as a Moto3 wild-card in his home race at Buriram in 2018 earned him a full-time Moto2 ride with Idemitsu Honda Team Asia. In Moto2, Chantra clinched his first podiums and wins in 2022, adding another victory last-season and finishing sixth in championship.
Currently, Chantra ranks tenth in the Moto2 standings, with his best race finish being fifth. Consequently, his move to MotoGP reflects his impressive rise and the potential he has demonstrated throughout his career.
Earlier today, the announcement revealed Nakagami’s new role as an HRC test rider in Japan. As well as his participation in some MotoGP wild-card events. Aleix Espargaro will join Honda as their new European-based test rider, alongside Stefan Bradl.
“First, I would like to thank Takaaki Nakagami for his outstanding commitment during the past seven MotoGP seasons,” said team principal Lucio Cecchinello. “We wish him all the best in his next chapter with Honda. For the future, we are excited to welcome Somkiat Chantra, a remarkable Asian talent, to MotoGP. His achievements in Moto2 showcase his potential and skill, and we believe he is ready for this next step.”
Chantra will join MotoGP alongside friends and former teammates Ai Ogura (Trackhouse) and Fermin Aldeguer (Gresini), who are also moving up from Moto2. With the 2025-season opener scheduled for Buriram, Chantra will make his MotoGP debut in front of his-home crowd in March.
As Chantra prepares for his groundbreaking debut, the Pramac Yamaha seats remain unconfirmed. Meanwhile, expectations point towards Miguel Oliveira and Jack Miller filling those spots.
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