Honda HRC Launches 2026 WorldSBK Test Programme with Challenging Jerez Session

Wet and unpredictable conditions shape Jake Dixon’s early progress as Honda HRC begins its 2026 testing campaign in Spain

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Honda HRC officially kicked off its 2026 Superbike World Championship test season with a two-day session at the iconic Circuito de Jerez – Ángel Nieto in Spain, as factory rider Jake Dixon took to the track aboard the Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade.

Held on Wednesday 21 and Thursday 22 January, the Jerez test marked an important early step in Honda HRC’s preparations for the upcoming WorldSBK campaign. However, cold temperatures and persistent wet weather proved to be a major challenge throughout both days of running.

Wet Weather Hampers Early Track Time at Jerez

Dixon faced difficult conditions from the outset, with heavy rain and low track temperatures significantly limiting running on Wednesday. Despite the lack of dry laps, the British rider used the opportunity to gain valuable experience in wet conditions, focusing on confidence-building and familiarisation with the Fireblade alongside his technical crew until mid-afternoon.

Thursday offered slightly improved conditions, though damp patches around the circuit meant track action was delayed until around 2pm. With the track almost dry, Dixon worked through a busy testing programme, placing particular emphasis on bike geometry and electronics setup. Unfortunately, rain returned later in the afternoon, bringing the day’s running to an early conclusion.

Chantra Absent as Test Team Steps In

Honda HRC was without Somkiat Chantra for the Jerez test, as the Thai rider continues to recover from an injury sustained during a recent training incident at Sepang. In his absence, Honda HRC test rider Tetsuta Nagashima joined the programme, providing key feedback to support ongoing development work.

Six-time WorldSBK champion Jonathan Rea also took part, making his first on-track appearance in his new role as a Honda HRC test rider. Rea’s presence added significant experience and insight, further strengthening Honda’s testing efforts ahead of the season opener.

Dixon Shows Encouraging Progress Despite Limited Laps

This marked only the second time Jake Dixon has ridden the Fireblade at Jerez, following an earlier test at the same venue in November. Despite limited dry running, Dixon reported noticeable progress compared to his previous outing, particularly in terms of comfort, setup direction, and overall feeling with the bike.

The Honda HRC squad now looks ahead to upcoming test sessions, where improved weather conditions will hopefully allow the team to build on the foundations laid in Jerez and continue refining the Fireblade ahead of the 2026 WorldSBK season.

With experienced test riders contributing valuable data and a determined factory rider pushing forward despite challenging conditions, Honda HRC’s 2026 campaign is well and truly underway.