P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Somkiat Chantra’s MotoGP injury absence will continue at least two more rounds – which is bad timing with his 2026 seat in jeopardy
LCR Honda MotoGP rookie Somkiat Chantra will miss at least two more rounds of his debut season in the championship as he continues to recover from a knee injury sustained while training before the series’ summer break. Speculation is growing about his future in the premier class amidst his extended absence.
Damaging the ligaments of his right knee before the Dutch round in June, Chantra underwent surgery and aimed to return at the Austrian Grand Prix. However, further examination indicated he’s not ready to race, causing him to miss both the Austrian Grand Prix and the subsequent MotoGP visit to the Balaton Park circuit in Hungary.
He won’t have a substitute rider for the Austrian Grand Prix, which technically violates MotoGP regulations. Instead, Honda test rider Aleix Espargaro will fill in for him in Hungary. Chantra’s prolonged absence raises questions about his future in MotoGP after a lackluster performance in the first half of the season.
There are concerns beyond his injury, with reports of dissatisfaction from Honda regarding his work ethic and attitude off the track. His difficulties adapting from Moto2 to MotoGP may not be the sole reason for his underwhelming results, with suggestions of disappointment in his overall contribution to the team’s development data.
The second seat at LCR, traditionally for an Asia Talent Cup graduate, could see changes in the future as sponsor relationships evolve, potentially impacting Chantra’s long-term prospects in the championship.
