IDEMITSU Honda LCR rider Somkiat Chantra will miss the Austrian and Hungarian GPs. The Thai rider sustained a ligament injury in his right knee while training after the Dutch GP, underwent surgery, and has since been working hard on his recovery with the goal of returning this weekend at the Red Bull Ring.
However, on Wednesday morning, MotoGP Medical Director Ángel Charte, together with knee specialists at the University Dexeus Hospital in Barcelona, carried out a medical assessment and concluded that Chantra is not yet able to return to race. The Thai rider will therefore miss the next two events.
With a number of Honda test riders and possible replacements also sidelined with their own recoveries, the IDEMITSU Honda LCR team has stated they’ve been unable to secure a suitable replacement for Austria.
By the time MotoGP heads for Hungary to debut at Balaton Park next weekend, however, they’ve confirmed that HRC test rider Aleix Espargaró will be fielded in Chantra’s place. The #35 is expected back on track in Barcelona.
Get well soon, Somkiat!