Takaaki Nakagami has announced that he will retire from MotoGP at the end of the 2024 season, transitioning to a development role with HRC in 2025. This decision paves the way for Somkiat Chantra to step into the LCR Honda MotoGP seat next season.
“I’ve decided to end my career as a MotoGP rider at the close of the 2024 season,” Nakagami stated. “I want to express my sincere gratitude to all the fans who have supported me throughout my journey. I also extend my heartfelt thanks to IDEMITSU and HONDA for their unwavering support over the years.”
Nakagami’s new role will see him contribute to the development of HRC machines, applying the knowledge he has gained from seven seasons in the premier class. “It’s gratifying to make use of my MotoGP experience in this new chapter of my career, and I’m excited about what lies ahead. I also want to thank Lucio and the entire LCR team. They’ve made me feel like part of a family, and these years with them have been incredible. LCR will always hold a special place in my heart.”
Nakagami joined MotoGP in 2018 after winning two races in Moto2. Throughout his seven-year tenure with LCR, he consistently demonstrated his skill and determination, coming agonizingly close to a podium finish on several occasions. His pole position at the 2020 Aragon Grand Prix was particularly memorable. Though it ended in heartbreak when he crashed out of the lead on the opening lap.
The 32-year-old Japanese rider had previously expressed his desire to remain with LCR. But his decision to transition to HRC test rider duties in Japan marks a new chapter in his career. Nakagami will also participate in select MotoGP races as a wild-card entry.
“This isn’t a goodbye; it’s more of a ‘see you soon’!” said LCR team principal Lucio Cecchinello. “Our connection with Nakagami isn’t ending; it’s simply evolving as he joins the HRC MotoGP development program. The past seven years have been significant for the LCR family. Taka is not only a fast rider but also an amazing person. Working with him has been a pleasure, and his politeness, kindness. And professionalism have made a lasting impact on all of us at LCR and HRC.”
Cecchinello emphasized Nakagami’s ongoing importance to HRC: “His contribution to HRC’s development will be fundamental, and we’re eager to see him continue to play a key role. The entire MotoGP paddock respects and admires Taka, and that’s something that transcends everything else. We’re grateful for all he has done, and we look forward to seeing what he’ll achieve next.”
Nakagami’s retirement coincides with that of Aprilia’s Aleix Espargaro, who will also transition to Honda test riding duties at the end of this season. Espargaro will join HRC’s European test team alongside Stefan Bradl.
As the Aragon MotoGP approaches, Nakagami finds himself 20th in the world championship standings, tied on points with Repsol Honda and just one point behind his team-mate and top Honda rider, Johann Zarco.
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