P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Jonathan Rea’s Honda WorldSBK debut was delayed due to injury.
Jonathan Rea announced his signing as Honda’s WorldSBK test rider, but his debut on the CBR1000RR-R SP had to be postponed due to injury recovery.
The signing came after Rea concluded his full-time racing career after the 2025 World Superbike season.
Rea was supposed to make his debut ride at Jerez this week, along with other World Superbike teams testing there.
Due to knee surgery from his crash in Jerez in October, Rea has not been able to ride, unlike his counterparts like Jake Dixon and Somkiat Chantra who have tested the Fireblade.
Rea might not have a chance to ride the Honda before European tests in late January, but there’s a possibility of him wildcarding in WorldSBK at Portimao and Donington next year.
As an HRC WorldSBK test rider, Rea could potentially take these wildcards, replacing the usual rider Tommy Bridewell at Honda Racing UK for the 2026 season.
