P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Jonathan Rea will replace Jake Dixon at the 2026 Dutch WorldSBK for his second race appearance of the season.
Jonathan Rea will be filling in for injured rider Jake Dixon for the second time in the 2026 WorldSBK season during the Dutch Round on 17–19 April. Dixon has been recovering from wrist injuries sustained in a testing crash at Phillip Island, causing him to miss the first two rounds of the season.
Honda’s statement confirms Rea’s participation in the upcoming race alongside Somkiat Chantra, who made his WorldSBK debut at Portimao after recovering from arm fractures. Dixon is aiming to return at the Hungarian Round on 1–3 May, pending medical clearance.
Rea mentioned that he is still working towards full fitness after offseason surgeries but expects to be in better shape for future races. He will have three weeks between the Portimao and Dutch rounds to further improve his physical condition.
Assen has been a successful circuit for Rea, with 17 wins there in his World Superbike career, including a treble in 2021 and doubles in three consecutive seasons from 2015 to 2017.
