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Honda rookie’s World Superbike debut in doubt after worse-than-expected injury
Honda World Superbike rookie Somkiat Chantra is unlikely to start the 2026 season due to a training injury that was worse than initially expected.
Chantra, a double Moto2 grand prix winner, had moved to the production-based series with the factory Honda squad after a single season in MotoGP.
While training at Sepang International Circuit on a CBR1000RR road bike in preparation for the upcoming season, the Thai rider crashed and suffered injuries to both arms.
Following surgery on both arms, Chantra’s right arm is now in a cast, but it is uncertain when he will be able to return to racing.
With pre-season testing ongoing and the first round in Australia approaching, Honda may have to consider replacements, possibly including six-time World Superbike champion Jonathan Rea or MotoGP test rider Takaaki Nakagami.
After a challenging MotoGP season last year, Chantra has been replaced at LCR by reigning Moto2 champion Diogo Moreira for the 2026 season.
